Multiphasic compositions

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to compositions comprising a colloidal dispersion and an Agent of Interest (“AOI”), wherein the colloidal dispersion comprises deformable colloidal particles and wherein the AOI is not associated with the deformable colloidal particles. The present invention also provides kits and transdermal drug release devices comprising the compositions of the present invention, and the use of these compositions in medicine, skin care and cosmetics.

This application is the National Stage of International Application No.PCT/EP2016/065425 filed Jun. 30, 2016, which claims priority to GBapplication no. 1511469.7, filed Jun. 30, 2015, and GB application no.1511478.8, filed Jun. 15, 2015, each of which is herein incorporated inits entirety by reference

The present invention relates to compositions comprising a colloidaldispersion and an Agent of Interest (“AOI”), wherein the colloidaldispersion comprises deformable colloidal particles and wherein the AOIis not associated with the deformable colloidal particles.

The present invention also provides kits and transdermal drug releasedevices comprising the compositions of the present invention, and theuse of these compositions in medicine, skin care and cosmetics.

Colloidal dispersions containing colloidal particles comprising anon-ionic surfactant and a phospholipid which are free of any AOI areknown from WO 2010/140061.

WO 2010/140061 describes the use of such drug-free (“empty”) colloidaldispersions for the treatment of deep tissue pain, specifically painassociated with osteoarthritis. In WO 2011/022707, drug-free colloidaldispersions are used for treating atopic eczema, dishydrotic handeczema, plaque type psoriasis, seborrheic eczema and acne vulgaris.

Colloidal particles have also been used to deliver AOIs through theskin. For example, WO 2015/014965 discloses colloidal dispersions thatcontain colloidal particles comprising a non-ionic surfactant and aphospholipid, wherein the colloidal dispersions comprise an AOI. WO2015/014965 describes the use of these colloidal dispersions for thetopical administration of a therapeutic, metabolic or structural AOIthat is “tethered” to the lipid and/or the surfactant component of thecolloidal particle. For example, colloidal dispersions comprisinganti-oxidants or vitamins are used for enhancing the skin's ability torepair, and colloidal dispersions comprising vitamin D may be used tosupplement sun cream in order to prevent vitamin D deficiency.

In some instances, such as in WO 2013/171131, an active agent is applieddirectly to the skin and a drug-free colloidal dispersion is appliedover the active agent to simply “push” it through the skin.

None of these documents disclose or teach a single compositioncomprising a colloidal dispersion and an AOI, wherein the colloidaldispersion comprises deformable colloidal particles and wherein the AOIis not associated with the deformable colloidal particles.

Citation of any reference in this section of the application is not anadmission that the reference is prior art to the invention. The abovenoted publications are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

Providing an AOI inside a colloidal particle such as a vesicle canprevent the active agent from contacting the appropriate receptorswithin the body, and thus reduce the efficacy of the composition.Bonding an active agent to an external surface of a colloidal particlecan result in the active agent penetrating past the desired targettissues of the subject when applied topically. Applying an AOI directlyto the skin, followed by a drug-free colloidal dispersion, means thatthere is little or no dose control of the application of the AOI. Anindeterminate amount of AOI is applied to the skin followed by anindeterminate amount of colloidal dispersion. It is impossible for theuser to be certain about how much AOI is being delivered through theskin. In addition, the application of an AOI directly to the skin meansthat it is applied at a high concentration and is more likely to causeadverse skin reactions. Furthermore, having to individually apply two ormore compositions is particularly time consuming for the user as eachcomposition may take up to 10 minutes to dry.

The current invention circumvents these problems by combining the AOIwith deformable colloidal particles in a single easy-to-applycomposition, wherein the AOI is not associated with the deformablecolloidal particles. The inventors have surprisingly found that suchcompositions are stable and that they increase the absorption of the AOIinto the skin of an animal whilst preventing the AOI from penetratingtoo deeply. Even when not associated with the AOI, the deformablecolloidal particles have been found to drive the AOI through the skin toincrease speed, depth and effectiveness of absorption. Furthermore, theprovision of both the AOI and the deformable colloidal particles in asingle composition means that both components can be administeredtogether in one easy application. This saves time for the user, reducesadverse skin reactions and ensures more accurate dosing (on agram-for-gram basis there is a consistent ratio of the AOI to thedeformable colloidal particles).

Accordingly, the first aspect of the invention comprises a compositioncomprising a colloidal dispersion and an AOI, wherein said colloidaldispersion comprises deformable colloidal particles comprising asurfactant and optionally a phospholipid and wherein the AOI is notassociated with the deformable colloidal particles.

As used herein, the phrase “not associated with” means that the AOI isnot attached to or contained within the deformable colloidal particle.In particular, the AOI is not tethered, bound or otherwise secured tothe deformable colloidal particle, is not contained within the structureof the deformable colloidal particle, including the lipid bilayer or thefluid enclosed by the lipid bilayer, is not encapsulated within thedeformable colloidal particle or in any other way directly associatedwith the deformable colloidal particle. Rather, the AOI is present in adifferent phase of the composition from the deformable colloidalparticles. For example, the AOI may be present within the continuousphase of the composition, for example dissolved in the continuous phase.Alternatively, the AOI may be present within a different dispersed phaseof the composition, for example in the form of insoluble aggregates orassociated with non-deformable colloidal particles such as micelles andnon-deformable vesicles such as liposomes. Preferably, the AOI is in aform in which it would not normally pass through the skin, without theassistance of deformable colloidal particles.

The composition of the present invention is multiphasic as it comprisesat least two phases; a dispersed phase comprising the suspendeddeformable colloidal particles and a continuous phase comprising themedium of suspension. In a multiphasic system there are discreteparticles, assemblies or bodies dispersed or suspended within a mediumor matrix. Each phase is a separate solid or liquid entity with adetectable phase boundary. In colloidal systems, the particle size ofeach phase is too small for observation with the naked eye. However, themultiphasic nature of the system can be demonstrated by applying anarrow beam of light, a Tyndall Beam, the passage of which is visiblethrough the solution due to scattering of the light by the phaseboundary(ies). The passage of such a beam of light through a singlephase solution would not be visible.

The composition of the present invention may be a biphasic composition,comprising a single dispersed phase and a single continuous phase. Insuch embodiments, the AOI may be dissolved in the continuous phase.

Alternatively, the composition of the present invention may comprisemore than two phases. For example, the composition may comprise two,three, four or more dispersed phases, in addition to the continuousphase. One such dispersed phase will comprise the deformable colloidalparticles which drive the AOI through the skin. A second dispersed phasemay comprise the AOI, for example in the form of insoluble aggregates orassociated with non-deformable colloidal particles. Other dispersedphases may also be provided comprising further deformable and/ornon-deformable colloidal particles.

The composition may comprise one or more colloidal dispersions.

Preferably, the continuous phase comprises a non-lipid phase. Thecontinuous phase may be selected depending upon the identity of the AOIand whether the AOI is to be dissolved in the continuous phase orprovided as a dispersed phase. Preferably, the continuous phase is anaqueous phase.

Whilst all of the AOI may be provided in a separate phase from thedeformable colloidal particles, under certain circumstances, which willbe well known to those of skill in the art, some of the AOI maypartition into the membrane or the fluid core of the deformablecolloidal particles. Preferably, only a negligible or insignificantamount of the AOI provided in a separate phase from the deformablecolloidal particles partitions into the deformable colloidal particles,whilst a significant amount of the AOI remains in a separate phase.Preferably, about 5% or less, about 4% or less, about 3% or less, about2% or less, about 1% or less, about 0.5% or less, about 0.1% or less orabout 0% of the AOI partitions into the deformable colloidal particles.Preferably, at least about 95.0%, at least about 96.0%, at least about97.0%, at least about 98.0%, at least about 99.0%, at least about 99.5%,at least about 99.9% or about 100% of the AOI in the composition remainsin a separate phase from the deformable colloidal particles.

Alternatively, the composition according to the first aspect of thepresent invention may comprise two significant populations of the sameAOI; a first population that is not associated with the deformablecolloidal particles and a second population that is associated with thedeformable colloidal particles, for example tethered to the deformablecolloidal particles. In such embodiments, the first population of theAOI will usually penetrate less deeply into the skin than the secondpopulation of the AOI, providing effects at different depths of tissue.

Where the composition of the first aspect of the present inventioncomprises two such populations of the same AOI, the proportion of thefirst population to the second population is designed according to theseparate purposes that each of the populations is designated to perform.Preferably, the ratio of the first population to the second populationis within the range 20:80 to 80:20, 30:70 to 70:30, 40:60 to 60:40 orapproximately 50:50. The AOI may be selected from the group consistingof an element, an ion, an inorganic salt, a small molecule, an aminoacid, a peptide, a protein, a carbohydrate, a lipid, a micronutrient, amacromolecule or a macrocyclic molecule.

The AOI may be a skin structural protein (such as elastin or collagen),a therapeutic protein, porphyrin or chromophore containing amacromolecule, a vitamin (such as vitamin C, D or E), titanium dioxide,zinc oxide, zinc stearate, melanin or a melanin analogue. The AOI may bea peptide or a synthetic organic chemical such as an anti-inflammatorydrug, for example an NSAID.

Preferably, the AOI is a biologically active agent. As used herein, thephrase biologically active agent includes but is not limited topharmaceutically active agents. A biologically or pharmaceuticallyactive agent is herein defined as an agent that has pharmacological,metabolic or immunological activity. To be termed a biologically activeagent, the agent in question must be present in the composition in aconcentration sufficient and appropriate to achieve a therapeutic orcosmetic effect when administered to a patient. Biologically activeagents may include nutraceuticals, cosmetic agents or pharmaceuticals.The AOI has preferably received regulatory approval.

The biologically active agent may be an antiseptic, an antibiotic, ananaesthetic, an analgesic, a skin lightener, and antihistamine, asteroid, an anti-inflammatory agent, an anti-viral, sun block,moisturiser, nicotine, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, nutraceuticals, anessential oil or a hormone.

Preferably, the biologically active agent is selected from the groupincluding but not limited to chlorhexidine or a salt thereof, capsaicin,salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof, glucosamine or a saltthereof, an amide of glucosamine or a salt thereof, chondroitin or asalt thereof, caffeine and tocopherol or a derivative thereof.

Chlorhexidine,N,N″″1,6-Hexanediylbis[N-(4-chlorophenyl)(imidodicarbonimidic diamide)],is a cationic polybiguanide (bisbiguanide). It is an antimicrobialcompound that is effective against a wide range of gram-positive andgram-negative bacteria and some fungi and viruses. It is widely used intopical disinfectants, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products, includingwound dressings and mouthwashes. It is also used for the treatment ofacne. Chlorhexidine may be used in the form of a salt. Preferably, thesalt of chlorhexidine is selected from the group consisting ofchlorhexidine dihydrochloride, chlorhexidine diacetate, chlorhexidinegluconate and chlorhexidine digluconate. Most preferably, thecomposition comprises chlorhexidine digluconate.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise about 0.1 to 3.0%chlorhexidine or a salt thereof by weight, about 1.0 to 3.0% by weight,about 2.0 to 3.0% by weight, about 0.1 to 2.0% by weight, about 1.0 to2.0% by weight, approximately 1.5% by weight, about 0.1 to 1.0% byweight, about 0.1 to 0.5% by weight, or approximately 0.3% by weight.Preferably, the compositions of the present invention comprise compriseschlorhexidine or a salt thereof at a concentration below its criticalmicelle concentration.

Preferably, the chlorhexidine or salt thereof is present in thecomposition in the form of insoluble aggregates or micelles. Where theAOI comprises chlorhexidine or a salt thereof, the continuous phase ispreferably aqueous.

Exemplary compositions according to the first aspect of the presentinvention comprising chlorhexidine or salt thereof are provided inExample 2.

Capsaicin, 8-methyl-N-vanillyl-6-nonenamide, is a capsaicinoid which isproduced as a secondary metabolite by the fruits of plants in the genusCapsicum, including chilli peppers. It is believed to act as a deterrantagainst predation by certain mammals and also as an anti-fungal agent.In medicine, capsaicin is used as an analgesic, particularly for thetemporary relief of pain associated with arthritis, backache, strainsand sprains, fibromyalgia and neuralgia. It is also used to reduceitching and inflammation associated with conditions such as psoriasis.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise about 0.01 to0.1% capsaicin by weight, more preferably about 0.01 to 0.05% by weight,most preferably approximately 0.025% by weight.

The capsaicin may be dissolved in the continuous phase, when thecontinuous phase comprises a suitable solvent, for example ether,benzene and/or an alkane. Preferably, the capsaicin is present in thecomposition in the form of insoluble aggregates or associated withnon-deformable colloidal particles such as liposomes comprising one ormore phospholipids. Preferably, the capsaicin is bound in the liposomemembrane. Under such circumstances, the continuous phase is preferablyaqueous.

Exemplary compositions according to the first aspect of the presentinvention comprising capsaicin thereof are provided in Example 3.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) with the formulaC₆H₄(OH)COOH. It can be obtained from the bark of willow trees.Salicylic acid is an important active metabolite of aspirin(acetylsalicylic acid), which acts in part as a prodrug to salicylicacid. It is widely used as an analgesic and it also hasanti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, anti-diabetic, bactericidal andantiseptic effects. As a result, it is an important ingredient inpain-killers, topical anti-acne products, rubefacient products,skin-care products for the treatment of conditions such as psoriasis,calluses, ichthyosis and warts, shampoos for the treatment of dandruff,suntan and sunscreen products, mouthwashes and dentifrices. It can alsobe used for the prevention or treatment of uneven skin tone caused by,for example, darker melanic spots and liver spots.

Salicylic acid can be used in the above applications in the form of asalt or ester. Salts of salicylic acid include calcium salicylate,magnesium salicyalte, MEA-salicylate, potassium salicylate, sodiumsalicylate and TEA-salicylate. Esters of salicylic acid includebutyloctyl salicylate, C12-15 alkyl salicylate, capryolyl salicylicacid, hexyldecyl salicylate, isocetyl salicylate, isodecyl salicylate,ethylhexyl salicylate, methyl salicylate, myristyl salicylate andtridecyl salicylate.

Preferably, the composition of the first aspect of the present inventioncomprises an ester of salicylic acid, most preferably myristylsalicylate or tridecyl salicylate.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise salicylic acid ora salt or ester thereof in concentrations appropriate to the intendeduse and within any regulatory limitations. Preferably, the compositionsof the present invention comprise salicylic acid or a salt or esterthereof in a concentration sufficient and appropriate to achieve theintended therapeutic or cosmetic effect when administered to a patient.

The compositions of the present invention preferably comprise about 0.05to 2.5% by weight of salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof,including myristyl salicylate and tridecyl salicylate, preferably 0.05to 2.0% by weight, 0.05 to 1.0% by weight, 0.05 to 0.5% by weight, 0.05to 0.2% by weight, approximately 0.1% by weight, 0.1 to 2.0% by weight,0.1 to 2.5% by weight or 0.2 to 1.8% by weight.

Salicylic acid and salts and esters thereof are water soluble and thus,where the continuous phase is aqueous, the salicylic acid or salt orester thereof may be dissolved within the continuous phase. At leastsome of the salicylic acid or salt or ester thereof may also partitioninto the membrane of the deformable colloidal particles of the presentinvention and/or one or more non-deformable colloidal particles alsopresent in the composition.

Glucosamine, or (3R,4R,5S)-3-Amino-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxane-2,4,5-triol,is an amino sugar and a prominent precursor in the biochemical synthesisof glycosylated proteins and lipids. Is commonly used as a dietarysupplement, in particular for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Glucosamine may be used in the form of an amide such asN-acetylglucosamine.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise salts ofglucosamine or the amides of glucosamine, such as glucosamine sulfate,glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetylglucosamine sulphate.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise about 0.01 to1.0% by weight of glucosamine, amides of glucosamine or salts thereof,more preferably about 0.05 to 0.5% by weight, more preferably about 0.1to 0.3% by weight, most preferably approximately 0.2% by weight.

Glucosamine, amides of glucosamine and salts thereof are water soluble.Thus, where the continuous phase of the composition is aqueous, thesemay be dissolved within the continuous phase.

Chondroitin is a glycosaminoglycan (GAG) composed of a chain ofalternating sugars, N-acetylgalactosamine and glucuronic acid. It isusually found attached to proteins as part of a proteoglycan. Achondroitin chain can have over 100 individual sugars, each of which canbe sulfated in variable positions and quantities.

Chondroitin may be used in the form of a salt, such as chondroitinsulphate, chondroitin gluconate and chondroitin hydrochloride.Chondroitin sulfate is an important structural component of cartilageand has become a widely used dietary supplement for treatment ofosteoarthritis.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise about 0.01 to1.0% chondroitin or salts thereof by weight, more preferably about 0.05to 0.5% by weight, more preferably about 0.1 to 0.3% by weight, mostpreferably approximately 0.2% by weight.

Chondroitin and salts thereof, such as chondroitin sulphate, are watersoluble. Thus, where the continuous phase of the composition is aqueous,these may be dissolved within the continuous phase.

Exemplary compositions according to the first aspect of the presentinvention comprising glucosamine, amides of glucosamine or salts thereofand chondroitin or salts thereof are provided in Example 4.

Caffeine, or 1,3,7-Trimethylpurine-2,6-dione, is a methylxanthinealkaloid which is naturally found in the seeds, nuts, or leaves of anumber of plants native to South America and East Asia. Whilst commonlyused as a stimulant of the central nervous system, caffeine is also apowerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that can be topically appliedto reduce wrinkles, eye puffiness and dark under-eye circles. It mayalso be used to prevent sun damage to the skin.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise about 0.001 to1.0% caffeine by weight, more preferably about 0.01 to 0.5% by weight,more preferably about 0.02 to 0.1% by weight, more preferably about 0.02to 0.08% by weight, most preferably approximately 0.05% by weight.

Caffeine is water soluble. Thus, where the continuous phase of thecomposition is aqueous, caffeine may be dissolved within the continuousphase. At least some of the caffeine may also partition into themembrane of the deformable colloidal particles of the present inventionand/or one or more non-deformable colloidal particles also present inthe composition.

Exemplary compositions according to the first aspect of the presentinvention comprising caffeine are provided in Example 5.

Tocopherols are a class of organic chemical compounds (more precisely,various methylated phenols), many of which have vitamin E activity.There are four different forms of tocopherol; alpha, beta, gamma anddelta. Tocopherols have a number of functions within the body. They haveantioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help protect cells fromthe damaging effects of free radicals which can lead to cardiovasculardisease and cancer. Tocopherols are involved in healthy immune function,gene expression, blood circulation, protecting the health of nerves andpreventing mental degeneration. Tocopherols also have an important rolein skin care, protecting the skin from oxidative damage resulting fromUV rays and pollution. Topical application of tocopherols can helpreduce redness, sunburn and skin damage, including UV-induced tumourformation. Tocopherols also help to protect the cells that make collagenand elastin, providing an anti-ageing effect. Tocopherols are alsoeffective moisturisers, hydrating the skin and preventing further waterloss, aiding in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Tocopherolsalso reduce the healing time of wounds and can be used to help repairskin lesions and dry skin and treat skin conditions such as psoriasisand erythema.

Alpha-tocopherol is the form of vitamin E that is preferentiallyabsorbed and accumulated in humans.

Tocopherol, preferably alpha-tocopherol, may be present in thecontinuous phase of the compositions of the present invention (as “free”tocopherol).

Tocopherols may be used in the form of one or more isomers orenantiomers or a racemic mixture thereof.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise about 0.01 to1.0% by weight of “free” tocopherol, such as alpha tocopherol, morepreferably 0.05 to 0.5% by weight, more preferably 0.1% to 0.3% byweight, most preferably approximately 0.2% by weight. A small amount ofthe “free” tocopherol may partition into the lumen of the deformablecolloidal particles, but a significant amount will remain in thecontinuous phase.

Exemplary compositions according to the first aspect of the presentinvention comprising alpha tocopherol in the continuous phase areprovided in Example 6.

Derivatives of tocopherols, for example esters such as tocopheryllinoleate, may also be used. Such derivatives may be tethered to thedeformable colloidal particles in various compositions of the presentinvention, as discussed herein.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise more than one AOIthat is not associated with the deformable colloidal particles. Forexample, a preferred composition of the present invention comprisesglucosamine or a salt thereof and/or an amide of glucosamine or a saltthereof, in combination with chondroitin or a salt thereof. For example,the composition of the present invention may comprise glucosaminehydrochloride and/or N-acetylglucosamine sulphate in combination withchondroitin sulphate.

As discussed above, the compositions of the present invention comprisedeformable colloidal particles comprising a surfactant and optionally aphospholipid.

As well as facilitating the absorption of the AOI into the skin, thedeformable colloidal particles of the present invention can themselveselicit a therapeutic effect. For example, vesicles according to thepresent invention have been demonstrated to facilitate lipid clearancefrom the skin by removing sebum, which is beneficial for the treatmentof oily skin conditions including acne. The vesicles have also beenshown to alleviate or attenuate pain upon topical application. Forexample, as described in WO 2010/140061, the vesicles have beendemonstrated to relieve the pain associated with osteoarthritis.Following topical applications, the vesicles penetrate the skin and aredelivered to the underlying muscle tissue and joint, providing alubricating effect. It is also hypothesized that the movement of thedeformable colloidal particles through the skin, into the extracellularinterstitial spaces and ultimately into the lymph nodes, facilitatesdrainage of the interstitial fluids to the lymph. Enhanced drainage ofthe interstitial fluid assists in the removal of undesirable by-productsfrom tissues, preventing toxic build-up of by-products. This can be ofbenefit to the appearance of the skin.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that thecompositions of the invention are able to achieve these functionsthrough the unique properties of colloid particles, which are particlescomposed of surfactant and/or lipid, such as phospholipid. Theuniqueness of the colloid particles derives from the inclusion in thecomposition of a specific amount of surfactant, preferably non-ionicsurfactant, which results in a highly deformable colloidal particle.Where the colloidal particle comprises a lipid such as a phospholipid,the surfactant modifies the lipid membrane to such an extent that theresulting particles are in a permanent liquid crystalline state. Sincethe surfactant also confers membrane stability, the particles areultra-deformable, robust and stable (have reduced rigidity withoutbreaking).

The composition forms into deformable colloidal particles suspended in asuspension medium, for example an aqueous buffer. The particles arehighly hydrophilic and this property, together with theirultra-deformability, is key to their ability to be transported acrossthe skin. When the composition of the invention is applied to the skinand allowed to dry, the rehydration driving force of the particlescombined with their deformability gives rise to movement of theparticles to areas of higher water content on and below the skinpermeability barrier. This drives their movement through skin pores andintracellular gaps. The specific ratio of lipid/phospholipid tosurfactant facilitates transdermal delivery of particles. As thedeformable colloidal particles move through the skin, they push or pullthe AOI with them, increasing the speed, depth and effectiveness ofabsorption of the agents.

As used herein, the term “deformable” refers to the ability of thecolloidal particles to easily change their properties, such as shape,elongation ratio and surface to volume ratio. The colloidal particles ofthis invention may be characterized by their ability to adjust theirshape and properties to the anisotropic stress caused by crossing narrowpores in a semipermeable barrier such as the skin. Sufficientdeformability implies that a colloidal particle can sustain differentunidirectional forces or stress, such as one caused by pressure, withoutextensive fragmentation, which defines a “stable” colloidal particle.

A “barrier” in the context of this invention is a body withthrough-extending narrow pores, such narrow pores having a radius whichis at least 25% smaller than the radius of the colloidal particles(considered as spherical) before said colloidal particles permeatethrough such pores.

The term “narrow” used in connection with a pore implies that the poreradius is significantly, typically at least 25%, smaller than the radiusof the colloidal particle tested with regard to its ability to cross thepore. The necessary difference typically should be greater for thenarrower pores. Using 25% limit is therefore quite suitable for >150 nmdiameter whereas >100% difference requirement is more appropriate forthe smaller systems, e.g., with <50 nm diameter.

Preferably, the deformability of the colloidal particles may bedetermined by the ability of the colloidal particles to penetrate abarrier with pores having an average pore diameter at least 25%, atleast 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 55%, at least 50%, atleast 55% or at least 60% smaller than the average particle diameterbefore the penetration. Most preferably, the deformability of thecolloidal particles may be determined by the ability of the colloidalparticles to penetrate a barrier with pores having an average porediameter at least 50% smaller than the average particle diameter beforethe penetration.

The term “semipermeable” used in connection with a barrier implies thata solution can cross transbarrier openings whereas a suspension ofnon-adaptable aggregates (large enough for the above definition of“narrow” pores to apply) cannot. Conventional lipid vesicles (liposomes)made from any common phosphatidylcholine in the gel lamellar phase orelse from any biological phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol 1/1 mol/molmixture or else comparably large oil droplets, all having the specifiedrelative diameter, are three examples for such non-adaptable aggregates.

The term “stable” means that the colloidal particles do not change theirdiameter spontaneously or under the transport related mechanical stress(e.g. during passage through a semipermeable barrier) unacceptably,which most often means only to a pharmaceutically acceptable degree. A20-40% change is normally considered acceptable; the halving or doublingof the diameter of the colloidal particles is borderline and a greaterchange in diameter is typically unacceptable. Alternatively and veryconveniently, the change in diameter of the colloidal particlesresulting from pore crossing under pressure is used to assess systemstability; the same criteria are then applied as for “narrow” pores,mutatis mutandis. To obtain the correct value for diameter change, acorrection for flux/vortex effects may be necessary. These proceduresare described in greater detail in the publications of the applicant inCevc et. al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta 2002; 1564:21-30.

Non-destructing passage of colloidal particles through narrow pores in asemipermeable barrier is thus diagnostic of deformability. If poreradius is two times smaller than the average radius of the colloidalparticles, the colloidal particles must change their shape andsurface-to-volume ratio at least 100% to pass without fragmentationthrough the barrier. An easy and reversible change in shape inevitablyimplies high deformability of the colloidal particles and requires largesurface-to-volume ratio adaptation. A change in surface-to-volume ratioper se implies: a) high volume compressibility, e.g. in the case ofcompact droplets containing material other than, and immiscible with,the suspending fluid; b) high membrane permeability, e.g. in the case ofcolloidal particles that are free to exchange fluid between inner andouter vesicle volume.

Methods of testing deformability which may be used to characterise thecompositions of the invention are set forth in WO 2010/140061 and USPatent Application Nos. 2004/0071767 and 2004/0105881, each hereinincorporated by reference as if set forth herein in their entirety.

The deformable colloidal particles may comprise one or more surfactantsand no phospholipids, or one or more surfactants in combination with oneor more phospholipids.

Preferably, the deformable colloidal particles comprise at least onesurfactant and at least one phospholipid. A surfactant is included inorder to provide colloidal particles which are in a permanent liquidcrystalline state and which are highly hydrophilic, ultra-deformable,robust and stable.

Preferably, these deformable colloidal particles comprise a fluid core,for example an aqueous core, enclosed by a membrane, for example abilayer membrane. Suitable bilayer membranes includephospholipid-surfactant bilayer membranes, non-ionic surfactant bilayermembranes and surfactant-cholesterol bilayer membranes. Preferably, thedeformable colloidal particles comprise vesicles. Particularly preferredvesicles include Sequessomes™, Transfersomes™ and Tethersomes. Usually,the term “Transfersome™” is used to refer to a deformable phospholipidand surfactant vesicle which is associated with an AOI, in particularwhere the AOI is either held in the lumen of the vesicle or bound withinthe vesicle's membrane. As described herein, the term “Sequessome™” isusually used to refer to the deformable phospholipid and surfactantvesicle itself. If an AOI is ‘tethered’ to the vesicle, such that it isheld outside the external surface of the membrane, the vesicle (orSequessome™) may be referred to as a ‘Tethersome’. The deformablecolloidal particles may also comprise niosomes.

Preferably, the deformable colloidal particles are approximately 60 nmto 200 nm in diameter, preferably 100 to 150 nm in diameter, mostpreferably approximately 120 nm in diameter.

Deformable colloidal particles of this invention are described in bothWO 2010/140061 and WO 2011/022707, each herein incorporated by referenceas if set forth herein in their entirety.

The deformable colloidal particles may not be associated with any knownAOI i.e. any non-phospholipid, non-surfactant, AOI. For example, thedeformable colloidal particles may not be associated with any knownbiologically active agent. Such deformable colloidal particles may betermed “empty” or “drug-free” deformable colloidal particles. For theavoidance of doubt, references herein to “drug-free” or “empty”deformable colloidal particles are to deformable colloidal particlesthat do not contain any non-lipid non-surfactant AOI that has atherapeutic purpose. These colloidal particles or colloidal dispersionsmay comprise active agents such as antimicrobials, stabilisers andpreservatives. However, it is to be understood that these agents aresimply for improving the stability of the formulations and forincreasing their shelf-life; they do not have a therapeutic purpose.

Alternatively, the deformable colloidal particles may be associated witha known AOI, such as a known biologically active agent. The AOIassociated with the deformable colloidal particles may or may not be thesame as the AOI that is also found in the composition in a form notassociated with the deformable colloidal particles. As discussed above,whilst all of the compositions of the present invention comprise an AOIwhich is not associated with the deformable colloidal particles, some ofthe same AOI may partition into, or otherwise be associated with, thedeformable colloidal particles. Alternatively, the deformable colloidalparticles may comprise one or more different, additional AOIs.

The additional AOI associated with the deformable colloidal particlesmay be an element, an ion, a small molecule, a carbohydrate, a lipid, anamino acid, a peptide, a protein, a macromolecule, a macrocyclicmolecule or a micronutrient.

The additional AOI associated with the deformable colloidal particlesmay be a skin structural protein (such as elastin or collagen), atherapeutic protein, porphyrin or chromophore containing macromolecule,a vitamin, titanium dioxide, a compound comprising zinc such as zincoxide or zinc stearate, melanin or a melanin analogue. The additionalingredient may be a peptide or an anti-inflammatory drug, such as anNSAID. Specifically, it may be tetrapeptide-7, tripeptide-1, ascorbicacid, palmitoyl ascorbate, tocopheryl lineoleate, myristyl salicylate,tridecyl salicylate, menthol, Naproxen or Diclofenac.

An AOI associated with the deformable colloidal particles may be bondedto its external surface. Where a plurality of additional ingredients orAOIs are bonded, the additional ingredients may all be the same, i.e.homogenous, or be different, i.e. heterogeneous.

Methods of tethering ingredients to the external surface of deformablecolloidal particles are described in WO 2015/014965, which is hereinincorporated by reference.

Additional ingredients or AOIs may also be incorporated into themembrane of the deformable colloidal particle.

Where the composition according to the first aspect of the inventioncomprises chlorhexidine or a salt thereof as an AOI which is notassociated with the deformable colloidal particles, the deformablecolloidal particles preferably comprise zinc or a compound comprisingzinc, such as zinc oxide or zinc stearate, tethered thereto. Zincdown-regulates sebum production by sebaceous glands and is therefore auseful additional ingredient in compositions for use in the treatment orprevention of acne.

Where the composition of the first aspect of the invention comprisescapsaicin as an AOI, the membranes of the deformable colloidal particlespreferably comprise menthol.

Where the composition according to the first aspect of the presentinvention comprises salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof as an AOIwhich is not associated with the deformable colloidal particles, thecomposition may additionally comprise salicylic acid or a salt or esterthereof associated with the deformable colloidal particles. Preferably,this salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof is tethered to thedeformable colloidal particles. Myristyl salicylate or tridecylsalicylate are preferred. The tethered salicylic acid or salt or esterthereof will penetrate to the stratum basale where it will exert ananti-tyrosinase action to down-regulate melanin production. Thesalicylic acid or salt or ester thereof which is not associated with thecolloidal particles will penetrate less deeply into the skin, remainingin the outer layers of the epidermis where it will exert a mildexfoliating effect which will increase the speed of turnover of new, nowde-melanised, skin.

Where the composition according to the first aspect of the inventioncomprises tocopherol or a derivative thereof as an AOI which is notassociated with the deformable colloidal particles, the composition mayadditionally comprise salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereofassociated with the deformable colloidal particles. Preferably, thissalicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof is tethered to the deformablecolloidal particles. Myristyl salicylate or tridecyl salicylate arepreferred. As described above, the tethered salicylic acid or salt orester thereof will penetrate to the stratum basale where it will exertan anti-tyrosinase action to down-regulate melanin production.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise one or morevitamins. These vitamins may be tethered to the colloidal particles,present in the continuous phase or as a separate phase.

Such vitamins may include vitamin C (ascorbic acid) or esters thereof,for example palmityol ascorbic acid or palmitoyl ascorbate. Thecompositions may comprise 0.01 to 1.0% by weight vitamin C (ascorbicacid) or esters thereof, more preferably 0.05 to 0.5% by weight, mostpreferably approximately 0.1% by weight. Preferably, the vitamin C oresters thereof are tethered to the deformable colloidal particles.

Another preferred vitamin for inclusion in compositions of the presentinvention is vitamin E (tocopherol) or esters thereof, for exampletocopheryl linoleate. The compositions may comprise 0.01 to 1.0% byweight vitamin E (tocopherol) or esters thereof, more preferably 0.05 to0.5% by weight, most preferably 0.1% to 0.2% by weight. Preferably, thetocopherol linoleate is tethered to the deformable colloidal particles.Preferably, tocopherol is present as a separate phase.

Vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin E and esters thereof provide thedeformable colloidal particles with an anti-oxidant protective effect.

Compositions of the present invention may comprise both vitamin C andvitamin E or esters thereof. The vitamin C or esters thereof and thevitamin E or esters thereof, where present, may be tethered to separatedeformable colloidal particles or to the same deformable colloidalparticles.

The tethering of such vitamins is particularly preferred when the AOIwhich is not associated with the deformable colloidal particlescomprises salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof, glucosamine or asalt thereof, an amide of glucosamine or a salt thereof, chondroitin ora salt thereof, caffeine and tocopherol or derivatives thereof.

Preferably, when the composition comprises salicylic acid or a salt orester thereof, palmitoyl ascorbic acid and/or tocopheryl linoleate aretethered to the deformable colloidal particles and tocopherol or aderivative thereof is present as a separate phase. Preferably, thecomposition comprises two forms of deformable colloidal particle; thefirst comprising salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof tetheredthereto and the second comprising palmitoyl ascorbic acid and/ortocopheryl linoleate tethered thereto. Again, tocopherol or a derivativethereof may be present as a separate phase.

Preferably, when the composition comprises glucosamine or a saltthereof, an amide of glucosamine or a salt thereof and/or chondroitin ora salt thereof, the composition additionally comprises palmitoylascorbate and/or tocopheryl linoleate tethered to the deformablecolloidal particles. The inclusion of such vitamins into thesecompositions enhances the efficacy of these compositions in maintainingand prolonging joint health and treating or preventing joint diseases orthe pain associated with poor joint health.

Preferably, when the composition comprises caffeine, palmitoyl ascorbicacid is tethered to the deformable colloidal particles.

Compositions according to the present invention comprising caffeine mayalso comprise tocopherol or a derivative thereof, which is preferablypresent as a separate phase.

Preferably, where the composition comprises tocopherol or a derivativethereof as an AOI not associated with the deformable colloidal particles(in the absence of caffeine), the composition additionally comprisespalmitoyl ascorbic acid and/or tocopheryl linoleate tethered todeformable colloidal particles. Preferably, the composition comprisesboth palmitoyl ascorbic acid and tocopheryl linoleate tethered to thesame colloidal particles.

Where such compositions also comprise tethered salicylic acid or a saltor ester thereof, as described above, the salicylic acid or a salt orester thereof are preferably tethered to a first form of deformablecolloidal particle and the palmitoyl ascorbic acid and tocopheryllinoleate are preferably tethered to a second form of deformablecolloidal particle.

Compositions of the present invention may additionally comprisetripeptide-1, preferably palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and/or tetrapeptide-7,preferably palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, tethered to deformable colloidalparticles.

The compositions may comprise 0.0001 to 0.1% by weight of tripeptide-1,preferably palmitoyl tripeptide-1, more preferably 0.001 to 0.01% byweight, more preferably 0.002 to 0.008% by weight, most preferablyapproximately 0.006% by weight.

The compositions may comprise 0.0001 to 0.01% by weight oftetrapeptide-7, preferably palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, more preferably0.001 to 0.01% by weight, more preferably 0.002 to 0.008% by weight,most preferably approximately 0.006% by weight.

The tethering of tripeptide-1 and/or tetrapeptide-7, in particularpalmitoyl tripeptide-1 and/or palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, to deformablecolloidal particles is particularly preferred when an AOI which is notassociated with the deformable colloidal particles is caffeine.

Preferably, compositions of the present invention comprising caffeineand tocopherol comprise three types of deformable colloidal particle;the first comprising palmitoyl ascorbic acid tethered thereto, thesecond comprising palmitoyl tripeptide-1 tethered thereto and the thirdcomprising palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 tethered thereto.

The inclusion of palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7into these compositions enhances their efficacy by stimulating collagensynthesis, firming the skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

For the avoidance of doubt, references herein to an “Agent of Interest”,or “AOI” are to the AOI which is not associated with the deformablecolloidal particles, unless explicitly stated otherwise. References toan “additional Agent of Interest” or an “additional AOI” are to afurther, different AOI, which may or may not be associated with thedeformable colloidal particles.

The composition may be a liquid, cream, lotion, ointment, gel, solution,spray, lacquer or film forming solution.

As a second aspect, the present invention provides a method of makingthe composition of the first aspect of the invention. Preferably, themethod comprises a primary manufacturing step in which a colloidaldispersion is made from an “organic phase” containing alcohol-solublecomponents and an “aqueous phase” consisting of water-solublecomponents. During a secondary manufacturing step, this initialdispersion is mixed with a thickener to form a gel with the desiredconsistency. The AOI is preferably added during this secondarymanufacturing step. More than one kind of colloidal dispersion may beintroduced such that the final composition comprises more than one kindof colloidal particle. An exemplary method of manufacture is describedin Example 1 and FIG. 2.

A third aspect of the present invention provides the compositionaccording to the first aspect of the invention for use in medicine.Preferably, the composition is provided for use in treating orpreventing a disease, disorder or condition.

The use for which the composition of the present invention is providedwill depend at least in part on the identity of the AOI included in thecomposition.

Where the AOI comprises chlorhexidine or a salt thereof, the thirdaspect provides the composition according to the first aspect of thepresent invention for use in treating or preventing a disease ordisorder associated with the skin of a patient. Preferably, the diseaseor disorder comprises acne or dermatitis. The compositions of thepresent invention can also be used to treat and care for acne-proneskin, in particular to prevent the appearance of acne in acne-proneskin. The compositions can also be used to treat or prevent theformation of spots, blackheads and blemishes, reduce skin impurities,reduce the spread of infection in the skin and tighten and constrictpores.

The compositions of the present invention provide these benefits, notonly because the deformable colloidal particles increase the speed,depth and effectiveness of absorption of the chlorhexidine or saltthereof into the skin of the patient, which provides an effectiveantimicrobial action to cleanse the skin and remove bacteria, but alsobecause the deformable colloidal particles can facilitate the clearanceof lipids from the skin by removing sebum. Furthermore, as discussedabove, tethering zinc or zinc compounds such as zinc oxide or zincstearate to the deformable colloidal particles down-regulates sebumproduction by sebaceous glands. Sebum can trap dirt and bacteria whichare the primary cause of spots and acne.

As demonstrated in Example 2, below, compositions of the presentinvention comprising chlorhexidine or a salt thereof significantlyreduce surface sebum, comedones (blackheads), papules and pustules.

Where the AOI comprises chlorhexidine or a salt thereof, the thirdaspect also provides the use of a composition according to the firstaspect of the present invention for the manufacture of a medicament forthe treatment or prevention of acne or dermatitis.

Where the AOI comprises capsaicin, the third aspect provides thecomposition according to the first aspect of the present invention foruse in treating or preventing one or more conditions selected from thegroup consisting of pain, including muscle pain, and itching.Compositions comprising capsaicin can be used prophylactially, forexample being applied prior to exercise to create a warming sensation inthe skin and underlying muscles and thus prevent or delay the onset ofthe sensation of muscle soreness. Compositions comprising capsaicin canalso be applied to treat post-exercise muscle pain.

Compositions of the invention comprising capsaicin are also provided foruse as an analgesic medicament or an antipruritic medicament.

Where the AOI comprises capsaicin, the third aspect also provides theuse of a composition according to the first aspect of the presentinvention for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment orprevention of pain or itching.

The compositions of the present invention may be useful for thetreatment or prevention of pain, not only because the deformablecolloidal particles increase the speed, depth and effectiveness ofabsorption of the capsaicin into the skin of the patient, but alsobecause the deformable colloidal particles can themselves alleviate orattenuate pain, such as that associated with osteoarthritis, asdiscussed above.

As demonstrated in Example 3, below, compositions of the presentcomprising capsaicin provide a pleasant warming sensation when appliedto the skin, which lasts for up to one hour.

Where the AOI comprises salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof, thethird aspect provides the composition according to the first aspect ofthe present invention for use in treating or preventing pain. Such painmay include the pain associated with osteoarthritis and muscle pain suchas post-exercise muscle pain. Preferably, the salicylic acid or a saltor ester thereof is present in the composition, both associated with thedeformable colloidal particles and not associated with the deformablecolloidal particles. Preferably, the salicylic acid or salt or estertherefore which is associated with the deformable colloidal particles istethered to the deformable colloidal particles.

Where the AOI comprises salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof, thethird aspect also provides the use of a composition according to thefirst aspect of the present invention for the manufacture of amedicament for the treatment or prevention of pain.

The compositions of the present invention may be useful for thetreatment or prevention of pain, not only because the deformablecolloidal particles increase the speed, depth and effectiveness ofabsorption of the salicylic acid or salt or ester thereof into the skinof the patient, but also because the deformable colloidal particles canthemselves alleviate or attenuate pain, such as that associated withosteoarthritis, as discussed above.

Compositions according to the present invention containing a salicylatecompound may also find use as a counter irritant.

Where the AOI comprises glucosamine or a salt thereof, an amide ofglucosamine or a salt thereof, and/or chondroitin or a salt thereof, thethird aspect provides the composition according to the first aspect ofthe present invention for use in maintaining and prolonging joint healthand/or for treating or preventing joint diseases (arthropathy), inparticular degenerative joint diseases such as arthritis andosteoarthritis. These compositions may also be used to treat or preventthe pain associated with poor joint health.

Where the AOI comprises glucosamine or a salt thereof, an amide ofglucosamine or a salt thereof, and/or chondroitin or a salt thereof, thethird aspect also provides the use of a composition according to thefirst aspect of the present invention for the manufacture of amedicament for maintaining and prolonging joint health and/or fortreating or preventing joint diseases (arthropathy), in particulardegenerative joint diseases such as arthritis and osteoarthritis, or thepain associated with poor joint health.

The compositions of the present invention may be useful for maintainingand prolonging joint health and for treating or preventing jointdiseases or the pain associated with poor joint health, not only becausethe deformable colloidal particles increase the speed, depth andeffectiveness of penetration of the AOI into the joint of the patient,but also because the deformable colloidal particles can themselvesalleviate or attenuate pain, such as that associated withosteoarthritis, as discussed above.

The compositions of the present invention are particularly suitable forpatients with chronic, long-term pain associated with joint diseasessuch as osteoarthritis, who wish to avoid or minimise the consumption ofpharmaceutical painkillers.

Preferably, the composition of the present invention is appliedtopically to the skin of a patient.

The composition of the invention may be topically applied once, twice,three times or more per day. Alternatively the composition may beadministered on alternate days, two or three times per week, once perweek or less frequently as needed. The composition may be administeredover a period of one or more weeks, for example, for at least one week,two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, five weeks, six weeks, seven weeks,eight weeks, nine weeks, ten weeks, eleven weeks, or twelve weeks,sixteen weeks, twenty four weeks, four months, six months, eight months,ten months, one year, two or more years, or as often as needed withinany regulatory restrictions.

Any amount of the composition sufficient to treat the condition inquestion may be administered to the patient, within any regulatoryrestrictions applicable to the AOI. For example, a 0.1 to 10 gram doseof the composition of the invention may be administered to the patient.The dose may be 1 to 10 grams, or 1 to 5 grams or about 1 gram, 2 grams,3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, 9 grams or 10grams. The dose may be measured as the total weight of the composition.The dose can be measured as the total weight of the phospholipid(s)and/or surfactant(s) in the composition. The dose may be administeredonce or twice daily or as often as needed. The dose may be administeredonce, twice, three, four, five, six, or seven times per week, or asoften as needed, in accordance with the invention. The dose may beadministered every day, every other day, or two to three times a week,or as often as needed, in accordance with the invention. Preferably, thecomposition may be applied twice daily. A suitable amount of thecomposition (i.e. any amount of the composition sufficient to treat acondition as herein described) may be spread over the problem area ofthe skin. The composition may be left to dry for up to 10 minutes.

A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a method of treatingor preventing a disease, disorder or condition comprising administeringthe composition of the present invention to a subject or patient in needthereof. Preferably, the composition is topically applied to the skin ofthe subject or patient.

Where the AOI comprises chlorhexidine or a salt thereof, the disease,disorder or condition is preferably acne or dermatitis.

Where the AOI comprises capsaicin, the disease, disorder or condition ispreferably selected from the group comprising pain, including musclepain, and itching.

Where the AOI comprises salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof, thedisease, disorder or condition is preferably pain.

Where the AOI comprises glucosamine or a salt thereof, an amide ofglucosamine or a salt thereof, and/or chondroitin or a salt thereof, thedisease, disorder or condition is preferably a joint disease(arthropathy), in particular a degenerative joint disease such asarthritis or osteoarthritis, or the pain associated with poor jointhealth.

The present invention also provides a method of maintaining andprolonging joint health, comprising topically applying a compositionaccording to the first aspect of the invention to the skin of a patientin need thereof, wherein the AOI comprises glucosamine or a saltthereof, an amide of glucosamine or a salt thereof, and/or chondroitinor a salt thereof.

All preferred features of the third aspect of the invention also applyto the fourth aspect of the invention.

A fifth aspect of the present invention provides the compositionaccording to the first aspect of the invention for use in skin care orcosmetics.

Compositions of the present invention comprising chlorhexidine or a saltthereof can improve the appearance of the skin. As discussed above, theydo so by treating or preventing acne and the formation of spots,blackheads and blemishes, reducing skin impurities, reducing the spreadof infection in the skin and tightening and constricting pores.

Compositions of the present invention comprising capsaicin haveapplications in cosmetics through their mild irritant effect. Inparticular, the topical application of capsaicin to the skin results invasodilation. When applied to the lips, capsaicin causes the lips toswell and redden. Such compositions may therefore be used to improve thecosmetic appearance of the lips.

Compositions of the present invention comprising salicylic acid or asalt or ester thereof can be used to improve the appearance of unevenskin tone by reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation such asmelanic spots and liver spots. Preferably, the salicylic acid or a saltor ester thereof is present in the composition, both associated with thedeformable colloidal particles and not associated with the deformablecolloidal particles. Preferably, the salicylic acid or salt or estertherefore which is associated with the deformable colloidal particles istethered to the deformable colloidal particles.

Such a composition has a dual effect. The tethered salicylic acid orsalt or ester thereof will penetrate more deeply into the stratum basaleof the epidermis where the melanocytes are located where it will exertan anti-tyrosinase action to down-regulate melanin production. Thesalicylic acid or salt or ester thereof which is not associated with thedeformable colloidal particles will penetrate less deeply into the skin,remaining in the outer layers where it will exert a mild exfoliatingeffect which will increase the speed of turnover of new, nowde-melanised, skin. The skin-lightening effects of the tetheredsalicylic acid or salt or ester thereof will therefore be seen by thepatient more quickly than in the absence of untethered salicylic acid ora salt or ester thereof.

Compositions of the present invention comprising glucosamine or saltthereof, an amide of glucosamine or a salt thereof and/or chondroitin ora salt thereof can be used to improve the appearance of the skin.Chondroitin and glucosamine are important constituents of cartilage andother connective tissue such as collagen. Supplementing the supply ofthese may be helpful in supporting collagen production and the repair ofthe structure of the skin and may therefore reduce the appearance offine lines and wrinkles. They may also improve skin tone, barrierfunction and hyperpigmentation.

Compositions of the present invention comprising caffeine can improvethe appearance of the skin, particularly periorbital skin. As discussedabove, they do so by acting as a powerful antioxidant andanti-inflammatory. In particular, caffeine has vasoconstrictorproperties and is thought to shrink the blood vessels that causeunder-eye dark circles. As demonstrated in Example 5, the compositionsof the present invention can reduce the appearance of puffiness andswelling around the eyes and below the lower eyelid (eye bags),under-eye dark circles and fine lines and deep wrinkles, includingcrow's feet, around the eye area. The compositions can also result inperiorbital skin which looks and feels less thin, looks and feels morefirm, feels more elastic, looks smoother and which is more hydrated. Thecompositions can also lift sagged skin, resulting in a reduction in skindroopiness and sagging. The compositions can make the skin tone lookmore even, make the eye contour look and feel tighter and look moretoned and lifted and make the eyes look rested and less tired. They mayalso be used to prevent sun damage to the skin.

The compositions of the present invention may be useful for improvingthe appearance of the skin, particularly periorbital skin, not onlybecause the deformable colloidal particles increase the speed, depth andeffectiveness of absorption of the caffeine into the skin of thepatient, but also because the deformable colloidal particles themselvescan improve the appearance of the skin. It is hypothesised, withoutwishing to be bound by any mechanism of action, that the movement of thedeformable colloidal particles through the skin, into the extracellularinterstitial spaces and ultimately into the lymph nodes facilitatesdrainage of the interstitial fluids to the lymph. Enhanced drainage ofthe interstitial fluid assists in the removal of undesirable by-productsfrom tissues, preventing toxic build-up of by-products.

Where these compositions comprise palmitoyl ascorbic acid and tocopherolor a derivative thereof, their antioxidant effect is enhanced. Wherethese compositions comprise palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyltetrapeptide-7 tethered to the deformable colloidal particles, collagensynthesis is also stimulated. The appearance of the periorbital skin istherefore further improved.

Compositions of the present invention comprising tocopherol or aderivative thereof in the continuous phase and salicylic acid or a saltor ester thereof tethered to the deformable colloidal particles canimprove the appearance of the skin. In particular, the compositions canbe used to improve the appearance of skin tone, for example by treatingand/or preventing uneven skin tone.

As discussed above, the tocopherol acts as a powerful antioxidant andanti-inflammatory, protecting the cells that make collagen and elastinand acting as an effective moisturiser. As discussed above, salicylicacid or a salt or ester thereof can also improve the appearance ofuneven skin tone by reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation such asmelanic spots and liver spots. As demonstrated in Example 6, thecompositions of the present invention can reduce the appearance of finelines and wrinkles and the amount and size ofhyperpigmentation/pigmented skin blemishes. The compositions can resultin skin which looks significantly smoother and feels significantly morehealthy and elastic. The compositions can help the complexion lookyounger and significantly healthier, be visibly improved and moreradiant. The compositions can also make skin tone look significantlymore even and significantly lighten hyperpigmentation/pigmented skinblemishes and periorbital dark circles.

Where these compositions comprise palmityol ascorbic acid and tocopheryllinoleate tethered to a second form of deformable colloidal particle,their antioxidant effect is enhanced.

The compositions of the present invention may be useful for improvingthe appearance of the skin, not only because the deformable colloidalparticles increase the speed, depth and effectiveness of absorption ofthe tocopherol and salicylic acid or salt or ester thereof into the skinof the patient, but also because the deformable colloidal particlesthemselves can improve the appearance of the skin. As discussed above,the deformable colloidal particles can enhance drainage of theinterstitial fluid to the lymph nodes, preventing toxic build-up ofby-products in the skin.

A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a method ofcosmetically improving the appearance of a subject comprisingadministering the composition of the present invention to the subject.Preferably, the composition is topically applied to the skin of thesubject, who is preferably human.

Where the AOI comprises chlorhexidine or a salt thereof, the methodpreferably comprises improving the appearance of the skin of thesubject, for example by treating or preventing acne.

Where the AOI comprises capsaicin, the method preferably comprisesimproving the cosmetic appearance of the lips of the subject, forexample by plumping the lips.

Where the AOI agent comprises salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof,the method preferably comprises improving the appearance of uneven skintone, preferably by reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Where the AOI comprises glucosamine or salt thereof, an amide ofglucosamine or a salt thereof and/or chondroitin or a salt thereof, themethod preferably comprises improving the appearance of the skin, forexample by supporting collagen production to reduce the appearance offine lines and wrinkles.

Where the AOI comprises caffeine, the method preferably comprisesimproving the appearance of the skin of the subject, preferably theperiorbital skin.

Where the AOI comprises tocopherol or a derivative thereof in thecontinuous phase and salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof tetheredto the deformable colloidal particles, the method preferably comprisesimproving the appearance of the skin, for example by treating and/orpreventing uneven skin tone.

All preferred features of the fifth aspect of the invention also applyto the sixth aspect of the invention.

A seventh aspect of the present invention provides a method ofdelivering an AOI to or through the skin of a patient, the methodcomprising topically applying to the skin of the patient a compositionaccording to the first aspect of the invention in an amount sufficientto penetrate the skin to deliver the AOI.

The present invention can be used to administer the AOI, such aschlorhexidine or a salt thereof, capsaicin, salicylic acid or a salt orester thereof, glucosamine or salt thereof, an amide of glucosamine or asalt thereof and/or chondroitin or a salt thereof, caffeine ortocopherol or a derivative thereof, to or through the skin of an animal.Preferably, the method comprises topically applying the composition tothe skin of the patient in an amount sufficient to penetrate the skin todeliver the AOI.

The present invention can also be used to administer an AOI, such asglucosamine or a salt thereof, an amide of glucosamine or a salt thereofand/or chondroitin or a salt thereof, to a joint of an animal, forexample a shoulder, elbow, wrist, knuckle, knee or ankle joint.Preferably, the method comprises topically applying the composition tothe skin of the patient in an amount sufficient to penetrate the skin todeliver the AOI to the underlying joint. Any animal can be included,including humans, dogs, cats, horses, food production animals and pets.

The compositions may be administered in accordance with the fourth,fifth, sixth and seventh aspects of the present invention in the sameamounts and with the same frequency and duration as set out above inrespect of the third aspect.

An eighth aspect of the present invention provides a package or kitcomprising a container comprising the composition according to the firstaspect of the invention and instructions for administration of thecomposition to a subject. Said subject may comprise a patient in need ofsaid composition.

The composition according to the first aspect of the invention iscontained within a single compartment of said container. Preferably, thedeformable colloidal particles and the AOI are contained only withinthis single compartment of the package or kit prior to being dispensedfrom the package or kit. In other words, it is preferred that thedeformable colloidal particles and the AOI are not stored in separatecompartments within the package or kit, prior to being mixed within thepackage or kit for administration to the patient. As discussed above,the inventors have found that the compositions of the present invention,comprising both the deformable colloidal particles and the AOI, aresurprisingly stable and can be stored ready-mixed in a singlecompartment of a package or kit.

The kit may be formatted such that the container is marked to indicatequantity of the composition remaining or dispensed.

The container may be in the form of a tube, sachet or pot. The kit mayalso comprise a dispensing means, preferably selected from groupconsisting of a pump, nozzle, measuring cup or spatula.

The instructions for administration of the composition according to thefirst aspect of the invention preferably comprise instructions for theadministration of the composition in accordance with any of the third,fourth, fifth, sixth or seventh aspects of the present invention.

Preferably, the instructions comprise instructions for the topicalapplication of the composition.

Where the AOI comprises chlorhexidine or a salt thereof, theinstructions for administration thereof preferably comprise instructionsfor administration thereof to a patient or subject in need thereof forthe treatment or prevention of a disease or disorder associated with theskin of a patient, preferably acne or dermatitis. The instructions mayalternatively direct the subject to administer the composition to theskin for the purpose of improving its appearance.

Where the AOI comprises capsaicin, the instructions for administrationthereof preferably comprise instructions for administration thereof to apatient or subject in need thereof for the treatment or prevention ofpain, including muscle pain, and/or itching. The instructions may alsodirect the subject to administer the composition prior to exercise. Theinstructions may alternatively direct the subject to administer thecomposition to the lips for the purpose of providing a cosmetic“plumped” effect.

Where the AOI comprises salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof, theinstructions for administration thereof preferably comprise instructionsfor administration thereof to a patient or subject in need thereof forthe treatment or prevention of pain. The instructions may alternativelydirect the subject to administer the composition to the skin for thepurpose of improving the appearance of uneven skin tone, includinghyperpigmentation. Where the AOI comprises glucosamine or salt thereof,an amide of glucosamine or a salt thereof, and/or chondroitin or a saltthereof, the instructions for administration thereof preferably compriseinstructions for administration thereof to a patient or subject in needthereof for maintaining and prolonging joint health and/or for treatingor preventing joint diseases (arthropathy), in particular degenerativejoint diseases such as arthritis and osteoarthritis, or the painassociated with poor joint health. The instructions may alternativelydirect the subject to administer the composition to the skin for thepurpose of improving the appearance of the skin, for example by reducingthe appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improving the appearanceskin tone, barrier function and hyperpigmentation.

Where the AOI comprises caffeine, the instructions for administrationthereof preferably comprise instructions for administration thereof to apatient or subject in need thereof for improving the appearance of theskin, for example the periorbital skin.

Where the AOI comprises tocopherol or a derivative thereof in thecontinuous phase and salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof tetheredto the deformable colloidal particles, the instructions foradministration thereof preferably comprise instructions foradministration thereof to a patient or subject in need thereof forimproving the appearance of the skin, for example treating and/orpreventing uneven skin tone.

A ninth aspect of the present invention comprises a transdermal drugrelease device comprising a support layer and a layer comprising thecomposition according to the first aspect of the present invention.

The transdermal drug release device may comprise a strip, plaster,bandage or patch.

The support layer may be made of any suitable material including fabricand silicon.

The transdermal drug release device may be applied to the skin of apatient such that the layer of the composition of the first aspect ofthe invention is in contact with the skin of the patient.

The support layer may remain on the skin for a set period of time, forexample 1 hour to 3 days. Alternatively, the support layer may beremoved and the composition layer may remain in contact with the skin.

All of the preferred features of each aspect of the invention applymutatis mutandis to all other aspects of the invention.

Generally, the nomenclature used herein and the laboratory procedures inorganic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology describedherein are those well-known and commonly employed in the art. Unlessdefined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereingenerally have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ofordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

In accordance with this disclosure, the term “comprising” is inclusiveor open-ended and docs not exclude additional, unrecited elements ormethod steps; the term “consisting of” excludes any element, step, oringredient not specified; and the term “consisting essentially of”excludes any element, step, or ingredient that materially changes abasic characteristic of the invention

As used herein, a “sufficient amount”, “amount effective to” or an“amount sufficient to” achieve a particular result refers to an amountof the composition of the invention is effective to produce a desiredeffect, which is optionally a therapeutic effect (i.e., byadministration of a therapeutically effective amount). Alternativelystated, a “therapeutically effective” amount is an amount that providessome alleviation, mitigation, and/or decrease in at least one clinicalsymptom. Clinical symptoms associated with the disorder that can betreated by the methods of the invention are well-known to those skilledin the art. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that thetherapeutic effects need not be complete or curative, as long as somebenefit is provided to the subject.

As used herein, the terms “treat”, “treating” or “treatment of” meanthat the severity of a subject's condition is reduced or at leastpartially improved or ameliorated and/or that some alleviation,mitigation or decrease in at least one clinical symptom is achievedand/or there is an inhibition or delay in the progression of thecondition and/or delay in the progression of the onset of disease orillness. The terms “treat”, “treating” or “treatment of also meansmanaging the disease state.

As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable” when used inreference to the compositions of the invention denotes that acomposition does not result in an unacceptable level of irritation inthe subject to whom the composition is administered. Preferably suchlevel will be sufficiently low to provide a composition suitable forapproval by regulatory authorities.

As used herein with respect to numerical values, the term “about” or“approximately” means a range surrounding a particular numeral valuewhich includes that which would be expected to result from normalexperimental error in making a measurement. For example, in certainembodiments, the term “about” when used in connection with a particularnumerical value means +−20%, unless specifically stated to be +−1%,+−2%, +−3%, +−4%, +−5%, +−10%. +−15%, or +−20% of the numerical value.

The term “alkyl” refers to a linear or branched saturated monovalenthydrocarbon radical, wherein the alkyl may optionally be substitutedwith one or more substituents Q as described herein. The term “alkyl”also encompasses both linear and branched alkyl, unless otherwisespecified. In certain embodiments, the alkyl is a linear saturatedmonovalent hydrocarbon radical that has 1 to 20 (C₁₋₂₀), 1 to 15(C₁₋₁₅), 1 to 12 (C₁₋₁₂), 1 to (C₁₋₁₀), or 1 to 6 (C₁₋₆) carbon atoms,or a branched saturated monovalent hydrocarbon radical of 3 to 20(C₃₋₂₀), 3 to 15 (C₃₋₁₅), 3 to 12 (C₃₋₁₂), 3 to 10 (C₃₋₁₀), or 3 to 6(C₃₋₆) carbon atoms. As used herein, linear C₁₋₆ and branched C₃₋₆ alkylgroups are also referred as “lower alkyl”. Examples of alkyl groupsinclude, but are not limited to, methyl, ethyl, propyl (including allisomeric forms), n-propyl, isopropyl, butyl (including all isomericforms), n-butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, t-butyl, pentyl (including allisomeric forms), and hexyl (including all isomeric forms). For example,C₁₋₆ alkyl refers to a linear saturated monovalent hydrocarbon radicalof 1 to 6 carbon atoms or a branched saturated monovalent hydrocarbonradical of 3 to 6 carbon atoms. It is understood in the chemical arts,that the use of the longer chains described herein may be appropriate,or appropriate only in limited amounts, within a molecule so that theproperties of the resulting molecule (such as solubility) areappropriate for the use. Thus, while those in the art may use the abovelonger length alkyl substituents they will be used only when appropriateto provide the desired function.

The term “aryl” refers to a monocyclic aromatic group and/or multicyclicmonovalent aromatic group that contain at least one aromatic hydrocarbonring. In certain embodiments, the aryl has from 6 to 20 (C₆₋₂₀), from 6to 15 (C₆₋₁₅), or from 6 to 10 (C₆₋₁₀) ring atoms. Examples of arylgroups include, but are not limited to, phenyl, naphthyl, fluorenyl,azulenyl, anthryl, phenanthryl, pyrenyl, biphenyl, and terphenyl. Arylalso refers to bicyclic or tricyclic carbon rings, where one of therings is aromatic and the others of which may be saturated, partiallyunsaturated, or aromatic, for example, dihydronaphthyl, indenyl,indanyl, or tetrahydronaphthyl (tetralinyl). In certain embodiments,aryl may also be optionally substituted with one or more substituents Qas described herein.

The term “heteroaryl” refers to a monocyclic aromatic group and/ormulticyclic aromatic group that contain at least one aromatic ring,wherein at least one aromatic ring contains one or more heteroatomsindependently selected from O, S. and N. Each ring of a heteroaryl groupcan contain one or two O atoms, one or two S atoms, and/or one to four Natoms, provided that the total number of heteroatoms in each ring isfour or less and each ring contains at least one carbon atom. Theheteroaryl may be attached to the main structure at any heteroatom orcarbon atom which results in the creation of a stable compound. Incertain embodiments, the heteroaryl has from 5 to 20, from 5 to 15, orfrom to 10 ring atoms. Examples of monocyclic heteroaryl groups include,but are not limited to, pyrrolyl, pyrazolyl, pyrazolinyl, imidazolyl,oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, thiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, isothiazolyi. furanyl.thienyl, oxadiazolyl, pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyridazinyl, andtriazinyl. Examples of bicyclic heteroaryl groups include, but are notlimited to, indolyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoxazolyl, benzothienyl,quinolinyl, tetrahydroisoquinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, benzimidazolyl,benzopyranyl, indolizinyl, benzofuranyl, isobenzofuranyl, chromonyl,coumarinyl, cinnolinyl, quinoxalinyl, indazolyl, purinyl,pyrrolopyridinyl, furopyridinyl, thicnopyridinyl, dihydroisoindolyl, andtetrahydroquinolinyl. Examples of tricyclic heteroaryl groups include,but are not limited to carbazolyl, benzindolyl, phenanthrollinyl,acridinyl, phenanthridinyl, and xanthenyl. In certain embodiments,heteroaryl may also be optionally substituted with one or moresubstituents Z as described herein.

The term “alkenoyl” as used herein refers to —C(O)-alkenyl. The term“alkenyl” refers to a linear or branched monovalent hydrocarbon radical,which contains one or more, in one embodiment, one to five,carbon-carbon double bonds. The alkenyl may be optionally substitutedwith one or more substituents Z as described herein. The term “alkenyl”also embraces radicals having “cis” and “trans” configurations, oralternatively, “Z” and “E” configurations, as appreciated by those ofordinary skill in the art. As used herein, the term “alkenyl”encompasses both linear and branched alkenyl, unless otherwisespecified. For example, C₂₋₆ alkenyl refers to a linear unsaturatedmonovalent hydrocarbon radical of 2 to 6 carbon atoms or a branchedunsaturated monovalent hydrocarbon radical of 3 to 6 carbon atoms. Incertain embodiments, the alkenyl is a linear monovalent hydrocarbonradical of 2 to 30 (C₂₋₃₀), 2 to 24 (C₂₋₂₄), 2 to 20 (C₂₋₂₀), 2 to 15(C₂₋₁₅), 2 to 12 (C₂₋₁₂), 2 to (C₂₋₁₀), or 2 to 6 (C₂₋₆) carbon atoms,or a branched monovalent hydrocarbon radical of 3 to 30 (3-30), 3 to 24(C₃₋₂₄). 3 to 20 (C₃₋₂₀), 3 to 15 (C₃₋₁₅), 3 to 12 (C₃₋₁₂), 3 to 10(C₃₋₁₀), or 3 to 6 (C₃₋₆) carbon atoms. Examples of alkenyl groupsinclude, but are not limited to, ethenyl, propen-1-yl, propen-2-yl,allyl, butenyl, and 4-methylbutenyl. In certain embodiments, thealkenoyl is mono-alkenoyl, which contains one carbon-carbon double bond.In certain embodiments, the alkenoyl is di-alkenoyl, which contains twocarbon-carbon double bonds. In certain embodiments, the alkenoyl ispoly-alkenoyl, which contains more than two carbon-carbon double bonds.

The term “heterocyclyl” or “heterocyclic” refers to a monocyclicnon-aromatic ring system and/or multicyclic ring system that contains atleast one non-aromatic ring, wherein one or more of the non-aromaticring atoms are heteroatoms independently selected from O, S, or N; andthe remaining ring atoms are carbon atoms. In certain embodiments, theheterocyclyl or heterocyclic group has from 3 to 20, from 3 to 15, from3 to 10, from 3 to 8, from 4 to 7, or from 5 to 6 ring atoms. In certainembodiments, the heterocyclyl is a monocyclic, bicyclic, tricyclic, ortetracyclic ring system, which may include a fused or bridged ringsystem, and in which the nitrogen or sulfur atoms may be optionallyoxidized, the nitrogen atoms may be optionally quaternized, and somerings may be partially or fully saturated, or aromatic. The heterocyclylmay be attached to the main structure at any heteroatom or carbon atomwhich results in the creation of a stable compound. Examples of suchheterocyclic radicals include, but are not limited to, acridinyl,azepinyl, benzimidazolyl, benzindolyl, benzoisoxazolyl, benzisoxazinyl,benzodioxanyl, benzodioxolyl, benzofuranonyl, benzofuranyl,benzonaphthofuranyl, benzopyranonyl, benzopyranyl,benzotetrahydrofuranyl, benzotetrahydrothienyl, benzothiadiazolyl,benzothiazolyl, benzothiophenyl, benzotriazolyl, benzothiopyranyl,benzoxazinyl, benzoxazolyl, benzothiazolyl, [beta]-carbolinyl,carbazolyl, chromanyl, chromonyl, cinnolinyl, coumarinyl,decahydroisoquinolinyl, dibenzofuranyl, dihydrobenzisothiazinyl.dihydrobenzisoxazinyl, dihydrofuryl, dihydropyranyl, dioxolanyl,dihydropyrazinyl, dihydropyridinyl, dihydropyrazolyl,dihydropyrimidinyl, dihydropyrrolyl, dioxolanyl, 1,4-dithianyl,furanonyl, furanyl, imidazolidinyl, imidazolinyl, imidazolyl,imidazopyridinyl, imidazothiazolyl, indazolyl, indolinyl, indolizinyl,indolyl, isobenzotetrahydro furanyl, isobenzotetrahydrothienyl,isobenzothienyl, isochromanyl, isocoumarinyl, isoindolinyl, isoindolyl,isoquinolinyl, isothiazolidinyl, isothiazolyl, isoxazolidinyl,isoxazolyl, morpholinyl, naphthyridinyl, octahydroindolyl,octahydroisoindolyl, oxadiazolyl, oxazolidinonyl, oxazolidinyl,oxazolopyridinyl, oxazolyl, oxiranyl, perimidinyl, phenanthridinyl,phenathrolinyl, phenarsazinyl, phenazinyl, phenothiazinyl, phenoxazinyl,phthalazinyl, piperazinyl, piperidinyl, 4-piperidonyl, pteridinyl,purinyl, pyrazinyl, pyrazolidinyl, pyrazolyl, pyridazinyl, pyridinyl,pyridopyridinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrrolidinyl, pyrrolinyl, pyrrolyl,quinazolinyl. quinolinyl, quinoxalinyl, quinuclidinyl, tetrahydrofuryl,tetrahydro furanyl, tetrahydroisoquinolinyl, tetrahydropyranyl,tetrahydrothienyl, tetrazolyl, thiadiazolopyrimidinyl, thiadiazolyl,thiamorpholinyl, thiazolidinyl, thiazolyl, thienyl triazinyl, triazolyl,and 1,3,5-trithianyl. In certain embodiments, heterocyclic may also beoptionally substituted with one or more substituents Z as describedherein. The term “halogen”, “halide” or “halo” refers to fluorine,chlorine, bromine, and/or iodine.

The term “optionally substituted” is intended to mean that a group,including alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, aralkyl,heteroaryl, and heterocyclyl, may be substituted with one or moresubstituents Z, in one embodiment, one, two, three or four substituentsZ, where each Z is independently selected from the group consisting ofcyano, halo, OXO, nitro, C₁₋₆ alkyl, halo-C₁₋₆ alkyl, C₂₋₆ alkenyl, C₂₋₆alkynyl, C₃₋₇ cycloalkyl, C₆₋₁₄ aryl, C₇₋₁₄ aralkyl, heteroaryl,heterocyclyl, —C(O)R^(e), —C(O)OR^(e), —C(O)NR^(f)R^(g),—C(NR^(e))NR^(f)R^(g), —OR^(e), —OC(O)R^(e), —OC(O)OR^(e),—OC(O)NR^(f)R^(g), —OC(═NR^(e))NR^(f)R^(g), —OS(O)R^(e), —OS(O)₂R^(e),—OS(O)NR^(f)R^(g), —OS(O)₂NR^(f)R^(g), —NR^(f)R^(g), —NR^(e)C(O)R^(f),—NR^(e)C(O)OR^(f), —NR^(e)C(O)NR^(f)R^(g), —NR^(e)C(═NR^(h))NR^(f)R^(g),—NR^(e)S(O)R^(f), —NR^(e)S(O)₂R^(f), —NR^(e)S(O)NR^(f)R^(g),—NR^(e)S(O)₂NR^(f)R^(g), —SR^(e), —S(O)R^(e), and —S(O)₂R^(e), and—S(O)₂NR^(f)R^(g), wherein each R^(e), R^(f), R^(g), and R^(h) isindependently hydrogen, C₁₋₆ alkyl, C₂₋₆ alkenyl, C₂₋₆ alkynyl, C₃₋₇cycloalkyl, C₆₋₁₄ aryl, C₇₋₁₄ aralkyl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl; orR^(f) and R^(g) together with the N atom to which they are attached formheterocyclyl.

The term “solvate” refers to a compound provided herein or a saltthereof, which further includes a stoichiometric or non-stoichiometricamount of solvent bound by non-covalent intermolecular forces. Where thesolvent is water, the solvate is a hydrate.

A pharmaceutically active agent is here defined as an agent that haspharmacological, metabolic or immunological activity. This may bedefined as being biologically active. This may include nutraceuticals,cosmetic agents, or pharmaceuticals.

In the sense of this disclosure, a “lipid” is any substance, which hasproperties like or similar to those of a fat. As a rule, it has anextended apolar group (the “chain”, X) and generally also awater-soluble, polar hydrophilic part, the “head” group (Y) and has thebasic Formula I:X—Y_(n)  (I)

wherein n is equal to or larger than zero.

Lipids with n=0 are referred to as apolar lipids and lipids with n>I arereferred to as polar lipids. In this sense, all amphophilic substances,including, but not limited to glycerides, glyccrophospholipids,glycerophosphinolipids, glycerophosphonolipids, sulfolipids,sphingolipids, isoprenoid lipids, steroids or sterols andcarbohydrate-containing lipids can generally be referred to as lipids,and are included as such in this disclosure. A list of relevant lipidsand lipid related definitions is provided in EP 0 475 160 A1 (see, e.g.p. 4, 1. 8 to p. 6, 1. 3) and U.S. Pat. No. 6,165,500 (see, e.g., col.6, 1. 10 to col. 7, 1. 58), each incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

A phospholipid in various embodiments may contain (I) a moiety derivedfrom glycerol or a sphingosine, (2) a phosphate group, and/or (3) simpleorganic molecule such as choline.

A phospholipid as used herein may, for example, be a compound of FormulaII:R¹—CH₂—CHR²—CR³H—O—PHO₂—O—R⁴  (II)

wherein R¹ and R² are hydrogen, OH, an alkyl group, an aliphatic chain,an aliphatic chain derived from a fatty acid or a fatty alcohol:provided however that R¹ and R² cannot both be hydrogen, OH or a C1-C3alkyl group; In some embodiments R¹ and R² are independently, analiphatic chain, most often derived from a fatty acid or a fattyalcohol; R³ generally is a hydrogen.

The OH-group of the phosphate is a hydroxyl radical or hydroxyl anion(i.e. hydroxide) form, dependent on degree of the group ionization.Furthermore, R⁴ may be a proton or a short-chain alkyl group,substituted by a tri-short-chain alkylammonium group, such as atrimethylammonium group, or an amino-substituted short-chain alkylgroup, such as 2-trimethylammonium ethyl group (cholinyl) or2-dimethylammonium short alkyl group.

A sphingophospholipid is, for example, a compound of Formula IIB:R¹-Sphingosine-O—PHO₂—O—R⁴  (IIB)

wherein R¹ is a fatty-acid attached via an amide bond to the nitrogen ofthe sphingosine and R⁴ has the meanings given under Formula II.

A lipid preferably is a substance of formulae II or IIB, wherein R¹and/or R² are acyl or alkyl, n-hydroxyacyl or n-hydroxyalkyl, but mayalso be branched, with one or more methyl groups attached at almost anypoint of the chain; usually, the methyl group is near the end of thechain (iso or anteiso). The radicals R¹ and R² may moreover either besaturated or unsaturated (mono-, di- or poly-unsaturated). R³ ishydrogen and R⁴ is 2-trimethylammonium ethyl (the latter corresponds tothe phosphatidyl choline head group), 2-dimethylammonium ethyl,2-methylammonium ethyl or 2-aminoethyl (corresponding to thephosphatidyl ethanolamine head group). R⁴ may also be a proton (givingphosphatidic acid), a serine (giving phosphatidylserine), a glycerol(giving phosphatidylglycerol), an inositol (givingphosphatidylinositol), or an alkylamine group (givingphosphatidylethanolamine in case of an ethylamine), if one chooses touse a naturally occurring glycerophospholipid. Otherwise, any othersufficiently polar phosphate ester, such that will form a lipid bilayer,may be considered as well for making the compositions of the disclosure.

A phospholipid is, for example, a compound of Formula IIC as describedin WO2011/022707, wherein R¹ and R² are independently an acyl group,alkyl group, n-hydroxyacyl group, or n-hydroxyalkyl group, most oftenderived from a fatty acid or a fatty alcohol, wherein R¹ and R² may alsobe branched, with one or more methyl groups attached at almost any pointof the chain: usually, the methyl group is near the end of the chain(iso or anteiso). wherein R¹ and R² cannot both be hydrogen, OH or aC₁-C₃ alkyl group. The radicals R¹ and R² may moreover either besaturated or unsaturated (mono-, di- or poly-unsaturated). R³ generallyis a hydrogen. The OH-group of the phosphate is a hydroxyl radical orhydroxyl anion (i.e. hydroxide) form, dependent on degree of the groupionization. Furthermore. R may be a proton or a short-chain alkyl group,substituted by a tri-short-chain alkylammonium group, such as atrimethylammonium group, or an amino-substituted short-chain alkylgroup, such as 2-trimethylammonium ethyl group (cholinyl) or2-dimethylammonium short alkyl group. R⁴ may be 2-trimethylammoniumethyl (the latter corresponds to the phosphatidyl choline head group),2-dimethylammonium ethyl, 2-methylammonium ethyl or 2-aminoethyl(corresponding to the phosphatidyl ethanolamine head group). R⁴ may alsobe a proton (giving phosphatidic acid), a serine (givingphosphatidylserine), a glycerol (giving phosphatidylglycerol), aninositol (giving phosphatidylinositol), or an alkylamine group (givingphosphatidylethanolamine in case of an ethylamine), if one chooses touse a naturally occurring glycerophospholipid. Otherwise, any othersufficiently polar phosphate ester, such that will form a lipid bilayermay be considered as well for making the compositions of the disclosure.

The table below lists preferred phospholipids in accordance with oneembodiment of the disclosure.

Bechen(o)yl Eruca(o)yl Arachin(o)yl Gadolen(o)yl Arachindon(o)ylOle(o)yl Stear(o)yl Linol(o)yl Linole(n/o)yl Palmitole(o)yl Palmit(o)ylMyrist(o)yl Laur(o)yl Capr(o)yl

The preferred lipids in the context of this disclosure are uncharged andform stable, well hydrated bilayers; phosphatidylcholines, such as soyphosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and sphingomyelins arethe most prominent representatives of such lipids. Any of those can havechains as listed in the table above; the ones forming fluid phasebilayers, in which lipid chains are in disordered state, beingpreferred.

Different negatively charged, i.e., anionic, lipids can also beincorporated into lipid bilayers of colloidal particles such asvesicles. Attractive examples of such charged lipids arephosphatidylglycerols, phosphatidylinositols and, somewhat lesspreferred, phosphatidic acid (and its alkyl ester) orphosphatidylserine. It will be realized by anyone skilled in the artthat it is less commendable to make colloidal particles just from thecharged lipids than to use them in a combination with electro-neutralbilayer component(s). In case of using charged lipids, buffercomposition and/or pH care must selected so as to ensure the desireddegree of lipid head-group ionization and/or the desired degree ofelectrostatic interaction between the, oppositely, charged drug andlipid molecules. Moreover, as with neutral lipids, the charged bilayerlipid components can in principle have any of the chains of thephospholipids as listed in the table above. The chains forming fluidphase lipid bilayers are clearly preferred, however, both due toparticle adaptability increasing role of increasing fatty chain fluidityand due to better ability of lipids in fluid phase to mix with eachother.

The fatty acid- or fatty alcohol-derived chain of a lipid is typicallyselected amongst the basic aliphatic chain types below:

Dodecanoic cis-9-Tetradecanoic 10-cis,13-cis-Hexadecadienoic Tridecanoiccis-7-Hexadecanoic 7-cis,10-cis-Hexadecandienoic Tetradecanoiccis-9-Hexadecanoic 7-cis,10-cis,13-cis- Hexadecatrienoic Pentadecanoiccis-9-Octadecanoic 12-cis,15-cis-Octadecadienoic Hexadecanoiccis-11-Octadecanoic trans-10,trans-12-Octadecadienoic Heptadecanoiccis-11-Eicosanoic 9-cis,12-cis,15-cis- Octadecatrienoic Octadecanoiccis-14-Eicosanoic 6-cis,9-cis,12-cis-Octadecatrienoic Nonadecanoiccis-13-Docosanoic 9-cis,11-trans,13-trans- Octadecatrienoic Eicosanoiccis-15-Tetracosanoic 8-trans,10-trans,12-cis- OctadecatrienoicHeneicosanoic trans-3- 6,9,12,15-Octadecatetraenoic HexadecanoicDocosanoic tans-9-Octadecanoic 3,6,9,12-Octadecatetraenoic Tricosanoictrans-11- 3,6,9,12,15-Octadecapentaenoic Octadecanoic Tetracosanoic14-cis,17-cis-Eicosadienoic 11-cis,14-cis-Eicosadienoic8-cis,11-cis-14-cis-Eicosadienoic 8-cis,11-cis-14-cis-Eicosadienoic5,8,11all-cis-Eicosatrienoic 5,8,11;14-all-cis-Eicosatrienoic8,11,14,17-all-cis-Eicosatetraenoic 5,8,11,14,17-all-cis-Eicosatetraenoic 13,16-Docosadienoic 13,16,19-Docosadienoic10,13,16-Docosadienoic 7,10,13,16-Docosadienoic4,7,10,13,16-Docosadienoic 4,7,10,13,16,19-Docosadienoic

Other double bond combinations or positions are possible as well.

Suitable fatty residues can furthermore be branched, for example, cancontain a methyl group in an iso or anteiso position of the fatty acidchain, or else closer to the chain middle, as in 10-R-methyloctadecanoicacid or tuberculostearic chain Relatively important amongst branchedfatty acids are also isoprenoids, many of which are derived from3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadec-trans-2-en-1-ol, the aliphatic alcoholmoiety of chlorophyll. Examples include5,9,13,17-tetramethyloctadecanoic acid and especially3,7,11,15-tetramethylhexadecanoic (phytanic) and2,6,10,14-tetramethylpentadecanoic (pristanic) acids. A good source of4,8,12-trimethyltridecanoic acid are marine organisms. Combination ofdouble bonds and side chains on a fatty residue are also possible.

Alternatively, suitable fatty residues may carry one or a few oxy- orcyclic groups, especially in the middle or towards the end of a chain.The most prominent amongst the later, alicyclic fatty acids, are thosecomprising a cyclopropane (and sometimes cyclopropene) ring, butcyclohexyl and cycloheptyl rings can also be found and might be usefulfor purposes of this disclosure. 2-(D)-Hydroxy fatty acids are moreubiquitous than alicyclic fatty acids, and are also importantconstituents of sphingolipids. Also interesting are15-hydroxy-hexadecanoic and 17-hydroxy-octadecanoic acids, and maybe9-hydroxy-octadeca-trans-10,trans-12-dienoic (dimorphecolic) and13-hydroxy-octadeca-cis-9,trans-11-dienoic (coriolic) acid. Arguably themost prominent hydroxyl-fatty acid in current pharmaceutical use isricinoleic acid, (D-(-)12-hydroxy-octadec-cis-9 enoic acid, whichcomprises up to 90% of castor oil, which is also often used inhydrogenated form. Epoxy-, methoxy-, and furanoid-fatty acids are ofonly limited practical interest in the context of this disclosure.

Generally speaking, unsaturation, branching or any other kind ofderivatization of a fatty acid is best compatible with the intention ofpresent disclosure of the site of such modification is in the middle orterminal part of a fatty acid chain. The cis-unsaturated fatty acids arealso more preferable than trans-unsaturated fatty acids and the fattyradicals with fewer double bonds are preferred over those with multipledouble bonds, due to oxidation sensitivity of the latter. Moreover,symmetric chain lipids are generally better suited than asymmetric chainlipids.

A preferred lipid of the Formula II is, for example, a naturalphosphatidylcholine, which used to be called lecithin. It can beobtained from egg (rich in palmitic, C16:0, and oleic, C18:1, but alsocomprising stearic, C18:0, palmitoleic, C16:1, linolenic, C18:2, andarachidonic, C20:4 (M, radicals), soybean (rich in unsaturated C18chains, but also containing some palmitic radical, amongst a fewothers), coconut (rich in saturated chains), olives (rich inmonounsaturated chains), saffron (safflower) and sunflowers (rich in n-6linoleic acid), linseed (rich in n-3 linolenic acid), from whale fat(rich in monounsaturated n-3 chains), from primrose or primula (rich inn-3 chains). Preferred, natural phosphatidyl ethanolamines (used to becalled cephalins) frequently originate from egg or soybeans. Preferredsphingomyelins of biological origin are typically prepared from eggs orbrain tissue. Preferred phosphatidylserines also typically originatefrom brain material whereas phosphatidylglycerol is preferentiallyextracted from bacteria, such as E. coli, or else prepared by way oftransphosphatidylation, using phospholipase D, starting with a naturalphosphatidylcholine. The preferably used phosphatidylinositols areisolated from commercial soybean phospholipids or bovine liver extracts.The preferred phosphatidic acid is either extracted from any of thementioned sources or prepared using phospholipase D from a suitablephosphatidylcholine.

Furthermore, synthetic phosphatidyl cholines (R⁴ in Formula IIcorresponds to 2-trimethylammonium ethyl), and R¹ and R² are aliphaticchains, as defined in the preceding paragraph with 12 to 30 carbonatoms, preferentially with 14 to 22 carbon atoms, and even morepreferred with 16 to 20 carbon atoms, under the proviso that the chainsmust be chosen so as to ensure that the resulting ESAs comprise fluidlipid bilayers. This typically means use of relatively short saturatedand of relatively longer unsaturated chains. Synthetic sphingomyelins(R⁴ in Formula IIB corresponds to 2-trimethylammonium ethyl), and R¹ isan aliphatic chain, as defined in the preceding paragraph, with 10 to 20carbon atoms, preferentially with 10 to 14 carbon atoms per fullysaturated chain and with 16-20 carbon atoms per unsaturated chain.

Synthetic phosphatidyl ethanolamines (R⁴ is 2-aminoethyl), syntheticphosphatidic acids (R⁴ is a proton) or its ester (R⁴ corresponds, forexample, to a short-chain alkyl, such as methyl or ethyl), syntheticphosphatidyl serines (R⁴ i-s L- or D-serine), or synthetic phosphatidyl(poly)alcohols, such as phosphatidyl inositol, phosphatidyl glycerol (R⁴is L- or D-glycerol) are preferred as lipids, wherein R¹ and R² arefatty residues of identical or moderately different type and length,especially such as given in the corresponding tables given before in thetext. Moreover, R¹ can represent alkenyl and R² identical hydroxyalkylgroups, such as tetradecylhydroxy or hexadecylhydroxy, for example, inditetradecyl or dihexadecylphosphatidyl choline or ethanolamine, R² canrepresent alkenyl and R² hydroxyacyl, such as a plasmalogen (R⁴trimethylammonium ethyl), or R¹ can be acyl, such as lauryl, myristoylor palmitoyl and R² can represent hydroxy as, for example, in natural orsynthetic lysophosphatidyl cholines or lysophosphatidyl glycerols orlysophosphatidyl ethanolamines, such as 1-myristoyl or1-palmitoyllysophosphatidyl choline or -phosphatidyl ethanolamine;frequently, R³ represents hydrogen.

A lipid of Formula IIB is also a suitable lipid within the sense of thisdisclosure. In Formula IIB, n=I, R¹ is an alkenyl group. R² is anacylamido group. R³ is hydrogen and R⁴ represents 2-trimethylammoniumethyl (choline group). Such a lipid is known under the name ofsphingomyelin.

Suitable lipids furthermore are a lysophosphatidyl choline analog, suchas 1-lauroyl-I,3-dihydroxypropane-3-phosphoryl choline, a monoglyceride,such as monoolein or monomyristin, a cerebroside, ceramide polyhexoside,sulfatide, sphingoplasmalogen, a ganglioside or a glyceride, which doesnot contain a free or esterified phosphoryl or phosphono or phosphinogroup in the 3 position. An example of such a glyceride isdiacylglyceride or 1-alkenyl-I-hydroxy-2-acyl glyceride with any acyl oralkenyl groups, wherein the 3-hydroxy group is etherified by one of thecarbohydrate groups named, for example, by a galactosyl group such as amonogalactosyl glycerin.

Lipids with desirable head or chain group properties can also be formedby biochemical means, for example, by means of phospholipases (such asphospholipase AI, A2, B, C and, in particular, D), desaturases,elongases, acyl transferases, etc., from natural or syntheticprecursors.

Furthermore, a suitable lipid is any lipid, which is contained inbiological membranes and can be extracted with the help of apolarorganic solvents, such as chloroform. Aside from the lipids alreadymentioned, such lipids also include, for example, steroids, such asestradiol, or sterols, such as cholesterol, beta-sitosterol,desmosterol, 7-keto-cholesterol or beta-cholestanol, fat-solublevitamins, such as retinoids, vitamins, such as vitamin AI or A2, vitaminE, vitamin K, such as vitamin KI or K2 or vitamin DI or D3, etc.

The less soluble amphiphilic components comprise or preferably comprisea synthetic lipid, such as myristoleoyl, palmitoleoyl, petroselinyl,petroselaidyl, oleoyl, elaidyl, cis- or trans-vaccenoyl, linolyl,linolenyl, linolaidyl, octadecatetraenoyl, gondoyl, eicosaenoyl,eicosadienoyl. eicosatrienoyl, arachidoyl, cis- or trans-docosaenoyl,docosadienoyl, docosatrienoyl, docosatetraenoyl, lauroyl, tridccanoyl.myristoyl, pentadccanoyl, palmitoyl, heptadecanoyl, stearoyl ornonadecanoyl, glycerophospholipid or corresponding derivatives withbranched chains or a corresponding dialkyl or sphingosin derivative,glycolipid or other diacyl or dialkyl lipid.

The more soluble amphiphilic components(s) is/are frequently derivedfrom the less soluble components listed above and, to increase thesolubility, substituted and/or complexed and/or associated with abutanoyl, pentanoyl. hexanoyl. heptanoyl, octanoyl, nonanoyl, decanoylor undecanoyl substituent or several, mutually independent, selectedsubstituents or with a different material for improving the solubility.

A further suitable lipid is a diacyl- ordialkyl-glycerophosphoetha-nolamine azo polyethoxylene derivative, adidecanoylphosphatidyl choline or a diacylphosphoolligomaltobionamide.

Preferably, the lipid is a phospholipid. Most preferably, thephospholipid is a phosphatidylcholine.

In some embodiments, the lipid in the composition does not comprise analkyl-lysophospholipid. In some embodiments, the lipid in thecomposition does not comprise a polyeneylphosphatidylcholine.

Preferably, the amount of lipid in the composition is from about 1% toabout 12%, about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 4%, about 4% toabout 7% or about 7% to about 10% by weight.

The term “surfactant” has its usual meaning. A list of relevantsurfactants and surfactant related definitions is provided in EP 0 475160 A1 (see, e.g., p. 6, 1. 5 to p. 14. 1.17) and U.S. Pat. No.6,165,500 (see, e g., col. 7, 1. 60 to col. 19, 1. 64), each hereinincorporated by reference in their entirety, and in appropriatesurfactant or pharmaceutical Handbooks, such as Handbook of IndustrialSurfactants or US Pharmacopoeia, Pharm. Eu. The surfactants may be thosedescribed in Tables 1-18 of U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2002/0012680 A1. published Jan. 31, 2002, the disclosure of which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety. The following listtherefore only offers a selection, which is by no means complete orexclusive, of several surfactant classes that are particularly common oruseful in conjunction with present patent application. Preferredsurfactants to be used in accordance with the disclosure include thosewith an HLB greater than 12. The list includes ionized long-chain fattyacids or long chain fatty alcohols, long chain fatty ammonium salts,such as alkyl- or alkenoyl-trimethyl-, -dimethyl- and -methyl-ammoniumsalts, alkyl- or alkenoyl-sulphate salts, long fatty chaindimethyl-aminoxides, such as alkyl- or alkenoyl-dimethyl-aminoxides,long fatty chain, for example alkanoyl, dimethyl-aminoxides andespecially dodecyl dimethyl-aminoxide, long fatty chain, for examplealkyl-N-methylglucamide-s and alkanoyl-N-methylglucamides. such asMEGA-8, MEGA-9 and MEGA-IO, N-long fatty chain-N,N-dimethylglycines, forexample N-alkyl-N,N-dimethylglycines, 3-(long fattychain-dimethylammonio)-alkane-sulphonates, for example3-(acyidimethylammonio)-alkanesulphonatcs, long fatty chain derivativesof sulphosuccinate salts, such as bis(2-ethylalkyl) sulphosuccinatesalts, long fatty chain-sulphobetaines, for example acyl-sulphobetaines,long fatty chain betaines, such as EMPIGEN BB or ZWITTERGENT-3-16,-3-14, -3-12, -3-10, or -3-8, or polyethylen-glycol-acylphenyl ethers,especially nonaethylen-glycol-octyl-phenyl ether, polyethylene-longfatty chain-ethers, especially polyethylene-acyl ethers, such asnonaethylen-decyl ether, nonaethylen-dodecyl ether oroctaethylene-dodecyl ether, polyethyleneglycol-isoacyl ethers, such asoctaethyleneglycol-isotridecyl ether, polyethyleneglycol-sorbitane-longfatty chain esters, for example polyethyleneglycol-sorbitane-acyl estersand especially polyoxyethylene-monolaurate (e.g. polysorbate 20 or Tween20), polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-monooleate (e.g. polysorbate 80 or Tween80), polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-monolauroleylate,polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-monopetroselinate,polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-monoelaidate,polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-myristoleylate,polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-palmitoleinylate,polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-p-etroselinylate, polyhydroxyethylene-longfatty chain ethers, for example polyhydroxyethylene-acyl ethers, such aspolyhydroxyethylene-lauryl ethers, polyhydroxyethylene-myristoyl ethers,polyhydroxyethylene-cetylst-earyl, polyhyd roxyethylene-palmityl ethers,polyhydroxyethylene-oleoyl ethers, polyhydroxyethylene-palmitoleoylethers, polyhydroxyethylene-lino-leyl, polyhydroxyethylen-4, or 6, or 8,or 10, or 12-lauryl, miristoyl, palmitoyl, palmitoleyl, oleoyl orlinoeyl ethers (Brij series), or in the corresponding esters,polyhydroxyethylen-laurate, -myristate, -palmitate, -stearate or-oleate, especially polyhydroxyethylen-8-stearate (Myrj 45) andpolyhydroxyethylen-8-oleate, polyethoxylated castor oil 40 (CremophorEL), sorbitane-mono long fatty chain, for example alkylate (Arlacel orSpan series), especially as sorbitane-monolaurate (Arlacel 20, Span 20),long fatty chain, for example acyl-N-methylglucamides,alkanoyl-N-methylglucamides, especially decanoyl-N-methylglucamide,dodecanoyl-N-methylglucamide, long fatty chain sulphates, for examplealkyl-sulphates, alkyl sulphate salts, such as lauryl-sulphate (SDS),oleoyl-sulphate: long fatty chain thioglucosides, such asalkylthioglucosides and especially heptyl-, octyl- andnonyl-beta-D-thioglucopyranoside; long fatty chain derivatives ofvarious carbohydrates, such as pentoses, hcxoses and disaccharidcs,especially alkyl-glucosides and maltosides, such as hexyl-, heptyl-,octyl-, nonyl- and decyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside or D-maltopyranosidc;further a salt, especially a sodium salt, of cholate, deoxycholate,glycocholate, glycodcoxycholate, taurodeoxycholate, taurocholate, afatty acid salt, especially oleate, elaidate, linoleate, laurate, ormyristate, most often in sodium form, lysophospholipids,n-octadecylene-glycero-phosphatidic acid,octadecylene-phosphorylglycerol, octadecylene-phosphorylserine, n-longfatty chain-glycero-phosphatidic acids, such asn-acyl-glycero-phosphatidic acids, especially laurylglycero-phosphatidic acids, oleoyl-glycero-phosphatidic acid, n-longfatty chain-phosphoryl glycerol, such as n-acyl-phosphorylglycerol,especially lauryl-, myristoyl-, oleoyl- orpalmitoeloyl-phosphorylglycerol, n-long fatty chain-phosphorylserine,such as n-acyl-phosphorylserine, especially lauryl-, myristoyl-, oleoyl-or palmitoeloyl-phosphorylserine, n-tetradecyl-glycero-phosphatidicacid, n-tetradecyl-phosphorylglycerol, n-tetradecyl-phosphorylserine,corresponding-, elaidoyl-, vaccenyl-lysophospholipids, correspondingshort-chain phospholipids, as well as all surface active and thusmembrane destabilising polypeptides. Surfactant chains are typicallychosen to be in a fluid state or at least to be compatible with themaintenance of fluid-chain state in carrier aggregates.

The surfactant may be present in the composition in about 0.2 to 10%,about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 7% or about 2% to 5% by weight.

Preferably, the surfactant is a nonionic surfactant.

The nonionic surfactant may be selected from the group consisting of:polyoxyethylene sorbitans (polysorbate surfactants), polyhydroxyethylenestearates or polyhydroxyethylene laurylethers (Brij surfactants).Preferably, the surfactant is a polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-monooleate(e.g. polysorbate 80 or Tween 80) or Tween 20, 40 or 60. The polysorbatemay have any chain with 12 to 20 carbon atoms. The polysorbate may befluid in the composition, which may contain one or more double bonds,branching, or cyclo-groups.

The compositions of the invention may comprise only one lipid and onlyone surfactant. Alternatively, the compositions of the invention maycomprise more than one lipid and only one surfactant, e.g., two, three,four, or more lipids and one surfactant. The compositions of theinvention may also comprise only one lipid and more than one surfactant,e.g., two, three, four, or more surfactants and one lipid. Thecompositions of the invention may also comprise more than one lipid andmore than one surfactant, e.g., two, three, four, or more lipids andtwo, three, four, or more surfactants.

The compositions of the invention may have a range of lipid/phospholipidto surfactant ratios. The ratios may be expressed in terms of molarterms (mol lipid/mol surfactant or mol phospholipid/mol surfactant). Themolar ratio of lipid or phospholipid to surfactant in the compositionsmay be from about 1:3 to about 30:1, from about 1:2 to about 30:1, fromabout 1:1 to about 30:1, from about 2:1 to about 20:1, from about 5:1 toabout 30:1, from about 10:1 to about 30:1, from about 15:1 to about30:1, or from about 20:1 to about 30:1. The molar ratio of lipid orphospholipid to surfactant in the compositions of the invention may befrom about 1:2 to about 10:1. The ratio may be from about 1:1 to about2:1, from about 2:1 to about 3:1, from about 3:1 to about 4:1. fromabout 4:1 to about 5:1 or from about 5:1 to about 10:1. The molar ratiomay be from about 10.1 to about 30:1, from about 10:1 to about 20:1,from about 10:1 to about 25:1, and from about 20:1 to about 25:1. Thelipid or phospholipid to surfactant ratio may be about 1.0:1.0, about1.25:1.0, about 1.5/1.0, about 1.75/1.0, about 2.0/1.0, about 2.5/1.0,about 3.0/1.0 or about 4.0/1.0. Preferably, all of the deformablecolloidal particles in a composition of the present invention have thesame lipid or phospholipid to surfactant ratio.

The compositions of the invention may also have varying amounts of totalamount of the following components: lipid or phospholipid and surfactantcombined (TA). The TA amount may be stated in terms of weight percent ofthe total composition. Preferably, the TA is from about 1% to about 40%,about 5% to about 30%, about 7.5% to about 15%, about 6% to about 14%,about 8% to about 12%, about 5% to about 10%, about 10% to about 20% orabout 20% to about 30%. More preferably, the TA is 6%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%or 20%.

Selected ranges for total lipid/phospholipid amounts andlipid/surfactant or phospholipid/surfactant ratios (mol/mol) for thecompositions of the invention are described in the Table below:

Total Amount and Lipid/Phospholipid to Surfactant RatiosLipid/Surfactant or TA (%) Phospholipid/Surfactant (mol/mol)  5 to 10 1.0 to 1.25  5 to 10 1.25 to 1.72  5 to 10 1.75 to 2.25  5 to 10 2.25to 3.00  5 to 10 3.00 to 4.00  5 to 10 4.00 to 8.00  5 to 10 10.00 to13.00  5 to 10 15.00 to 20.00  5 to 10 20.00 to 22.00  5 to 10 22.00 to25.00 10 to 20  1.0 to 1.25 10 to 20 1.25 to 1.75 10 to 20 1.25 to 1.7510 to 20 2.25 to 3.00 10 to 20 3.00 to 4.00 10 to 20 4.00 to 8.00 10 to20 10.00 to 13.00 10 to 20 15.00 to 20.00 10 to 20 20.00 to 22.00 10 to20 22.00 to 25.00

The compositions of the invention may optionally contain one or more ofthe following ingredients: co-solvents, chelators, buffers, pH adjuster,antioxidants, preservatives, microbicides, antimicrobials, emollients,humectants, lubricants co-solvents, thickeners and fragrances.Preferably, these other components of the composition are not associatedwith the colloidal particles of the present invention. Preferred amountsof optional components are described as follows.

Molar (M) or Rel w %* Antioxidant: Primary: Butylated hydroxyanisole,BHA 0.1-8 Butylated hydroxytoluene BHT 0.1-4 Thymol 0.1-1 Metabisulphite 1-5 mM Bisulsphite  1-5 mM Thiourea (MW = 76.12) 1-10 mMMonothioglycerol (MW = 108.16) 1-20 mM Propyl gallate (MW = 212.2) 0.02-0.2 Ascorbate (MW = 175.3⁺ ion) 1-10 mM Palmityl-ascorbate 0.01-1 Tocopherol-PEG 0.5-5 Secondary (chelator) EDTA (MW = 292) 1-10 mM EGTA(MW = 380.35) 1-10 mM Desferal (MW = 656.79) 0.1-5 mM  Buffer Acetate30-150 mM  Phosphate 10-50 mM  Triethanolamine 30-150 mM  *as apercentage of total lipid quantity

The compositions of the invention may include a buffer to adjust the pHof the aqueous solution. Preferably, the aqueous solution has a pH inthe range pH 3.5 to pH 9, pH 4 to pH 7.5, or pH 6 to pH 7. Examples ofbuffers include, but are not limited to acetate buffers, lactatebuffers, phosphate buffers, and propionate buffers. Preferably, thecompositions comprise one or more buffers selected from the groupconsisting of disodium hydrogen orthophosphate dodecahydrate, disodiumhydrogen orthophosphate anhydrous, sodium dihydrogen orthophosphatedehydrate, sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate dodecahydrate and phosphatebuffer, for example phosphate (pH6.7) buffer.

A particularly preferred pH adjuster is sodium hydroxide.

The compositions of the invention are preferably formulated in aqueousmedia. The compositions may be formulated with or without co-solvents,such as lower alcohols. The compositions of the invention may compriseat least 20% by weight water. The compositions of the invention maycomprise about 20%, about 30%, about 40%, about 50%, about 60% about70%, about 80%, about 90% by weight water. The composition may comprisefrom about 70% to about 80% by weight water. Preferably, thecompositions comprise one or more solvents selected from the groupconsisting of purified water, ethanol, for example ethanol (96%), benzylalcohol and paraben.

A “microbicide” or “antimicrobial” agent is commonly added to reduce thebacterial count in pharmaceutical compositions. Some examples ofmicrobicides are short chain alcohols, including ethyl and isopropylalcohol, chlorbutanol, benzyl alcohol, chlorbenzyl alcohol,dichlorbenzylalcohol, hexachlorophene; phenolic compounds, such ascresol, 4-chloro-m-cresol, p-chloro-m-xylenol. dichlorophene,hexachlorophene, povidon-iodine; parabenes. especially alkyl-parabenes,such as methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, or butyl-paraben, benzyl paraben;acids, such as sorbic acid, benzoic acid and their salts; quaternaryammonium compounds, such as alkonium salts, e.g., a bromide,benzalkonium salts, such as a chloride or a bromide, cetrimonium salts,e.g., a bromide, phenoalkecinium salts, such as phenododecinium bromide,cetylpyridinium chloride and other salts; furthermore, mercurialcompounds, such as phenylmercuric acetate, borate, or nitrate,thiomersal, chlorhexidine or its gluconate, or any antibiotically activecompounds of biological origin, or any suitable mixture thereof.Preferably, the compositions comprise one or more preservative selectedfrom the group consisting of methyl paraben and ethyl paraben. Examplesof “antioxidants” are butylhydroxyanisole or butylated hydroxyanisol(BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and di-tert-butylphenol (LY178002,LY256548, HWA-131, BF-389, CI-986, PD-127443, E-51 or 19, BI-L-239XX,etc.), tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), propyl gallate (PG),I-O-hexyl-2,3,5-trimethylhydroquinone (HTHQ); aromatic amines(diphenylamine, p-alkylthio-o-anisidine, ethylenediamine derivatives,carbazol, tetrahydroindenoindol); phenols and phenolic acids (guaiacol,hydroquinone, vanillin, gallic acids and their esters, protocatechuicacid, quinic acid, syringic acid, ellagic acid, salicylic acid,nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), eugenol); tocopherols (includingtocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma, delta) and their derivatives, such astocopheryl-acylate (e g. -acetate.-laurate. myristate, -palmitate,-oleate, -linoleate. etc., or any other suitable tocopheryl-lipoate).tocopheryl-POE-succinate; trolox and corresponding amide andthiocarboxamide analogues; ascorbic acid and its salts, isoascorbate, (2or 3 or 6)-o-alkylascorbic acids, ascorbyl esters (e.g., 6-o-lauroyl,myristoyl, palmitoyl-, oleoyl, or linoleoyl-L-ascorbic acid, etc.). Alsouseful are the preferentially oxidised compounds, such as sodiumbisulphite, sodium metabisulphite, thiourea; chellating agents, such asEDTA, GDTA, desferral: miscellaneous endogenous defence systems, such astransferrin, lactoferrin, ferritin, cearuloplasmin, haptoglobion,heamopexin, albumin, glucose, ubiquinol-10); enzymatic antioxidants,such as superoxide dismutase and metal complexes with a similaractivity, including catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and less complexmolecules, such as beta-carotene, bilirubin, uric acid; flavonoids(flavones, flavonols, flavonones, flavanonals, chacones, anthocyanins).N-acetylcystein, mesna. glutathione, thiohistidine derivatives,triazoles; tannines, cinnamic acid, hydroxycinnamatic acids and theiresters (coumaric acids and esters, caffeic acid and their esters,ferulic acid, (iso-) chlorogenic acid, sinapic acid); spice extracts(e.g., from clove, cinnamon, sage, rosemary, mace, oregano, allspice,nutmeg); carnosic acid, carnosol, carsolic acid; rosmarinic acid,rosmaridiphenol, gentisic acid, ferulic acid; oat flour extracts, suchas avenanthramide 1 and 2; thioethers, dithioethers, sulphoxides,tetralkylthiuram disulphides; phytic acid, steroid derivatives (e.g.,U74006F); tryptophan metabolites (e.g., 3-hydroxykynurenine,3-hydroxyanthranilic acid), and organochalcogenides. Preferably, thecompositions comprise one or more antioxidants selected from the groupconsisting of butylated hydroxyanisol (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene(BHT) and sodium metabisulphate.

Particularly preferred chelating agents are EDTA and disodium edetate.

“Thickeners” are used to increase the viscosity of pharmaceuticalcompositions to and may be selected from selected from pharmaceuticallyacceptable hydrophilic polymers, such as partially etherified cellulosederivatives, comprising carboxym ethyl-, hydroxyethyl-, hydroxypropyl-,hydroxypropylmethyl- or methyl-cellulose; hydroxypropyl ethylcellulose,microcrystalline cellulose, completely synthetic hydrophilic polymerscomprising polyacrylates, polymethacrylatcs, poly(hydroxyethyl)-,poly(hydroxypropyl)-, poly(hydroxypropylmethyl)methacrylate,polyacrylonitrile, methallyl-sulphonate, polyethylenes,polyoxiethylenes, polyethylene glycols, polyethylene glycol-lactide,polyethylene glycol-diacrylate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylalcohols, poly(propylmethacrylamide), poly(propylenefumarate-co-ethylene glycol), poloxamers, polyaspartamide, (hydrazinecross-linked) hyaluronic acid, silicone; cellulose gum, natural gumscomprising alginates, carrageenan, Ceratonia siliqua gum, guar-gum,gelatine, gellan, tragacanth, (amidated) pectin, xanthan, chitosancollagen, agarose; a mixture of glyceryl acrylate and acrylic acid,chitosan, mixtures and further derivatives or co-polymers thereof and/orother pharmaceutically, or at least biologically, acceptable polymers.Preferably, the compositions comprise a carbomer such as carbopol, forexample carbopol 974P NF, as a thickener.

A particularly preferred humectant is glycerol.

A particularly preferred fragrance is linalool.

The compositions of the present invention may also comprise a polarliquid medium. The compositions of the present invention may beadministered in an aqueous medium.

The compositions of the present invention may comprise menthol. This isparticularly preferred when the AOI comprises capsaicin. The compositionmay comprise 0.05 to 1% menthol by weight, more preferably 0.05 to 0.5%menthol by weight, most preferably approximately 0.1% menthol by weight.The menthol may be incorporated into the membrane of the deformablecolloidal particle.

The compositions of the invention may comprise one or more additionalAgents of Interest (AOI). As discussed above, these additional AOIs maybe associated with the deformable colloidal particles.

Preferably, any additional AOIs are not associated with the deformablecolloidal particles. These additional AOIs may be selected from thegroup consisting of an antiseptic, an antibiotic, an anaesthetic, ananalgesic, a skin lightener, and antihistamine, a steroid, ananti-inflammatory agent, an anti-viral, sun block, moisturiser,nicotine, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, nutraceuticals, an essential oiland a hormone.

These additional AOIs may be present within the continuous phase of thecomposition, for example dissolved in the medium of suspension, orwithin a different dispersed phase of the composition, for example inthe form of an insoluble aggregate or associated with non-deformablecolloidal particles such as micelles and non-deformable vesicles such asliposomes.

One particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises insoluble aggregates or micelles of chlorhexidine or a saltthereof, preferably chlorhexidine digluconate, together with emptydeformable colloidal particles, preferably Sequessomes™, and deformablecolloidal particles, preferably Tethersomes, to which zinc stearate hasbeen tethered.

A second particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises insoluble aggregates of capsaicin together with deformablecolloidal particles, preferably Transfersomes™, the membranes of whichcomprise menthol.

A third particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises liposomes comprising capsaicin, menthol and phospholipidstogether with deformable colloidal particles, preferably Transfersomes™,the membranes of which comprise menthol.

A fourth particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises insoluble aggregates of capsaicin together with emptydeformable colloidal particles, preferably Sequessomes™.

A fifth particularly preferred composition comprises myristyl salicylateor tridecyl salicylate dissolved in the continuous phase, and deformablecolloidal particles, preferably Tethersomes, to which myristylsalicylate or tridecyl salicylate are tethered. Preferably, tocopherolis present in the composition in a separate phase. This composition mayadditionally comprise a second type of deformable colloidal particle,preferably Tethersomes, to which palmitoyl ascorbic acid and tocopheryllinoleate are tethered.

A sixth particularly preferred composition comprises glucosaminehydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate dissolved in the continuousphase, and deformable colloidal particles, preferably Tethersomes, towhich palmitoyl ascorbate and tocophenyl linoleate are preferablytethered. One embodiment of such a composition is set out in Example 4.

A seventh particularly preferred composition comprises N-acetylglucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate dissolved in thecontinuous phase, and deformable colloidal particles, preferablyTethersomes, to which palmitoyl ascorbic acid and tocopheryl linoleateare preferably tethered. One embodiment of such a composition is set outin Example 4.

An eighth particularly preferred composition comprises caffeinedissolved in the continuous phase, and deformable colloidal particles,preferably Tethersomes, to which palmitoyl ascorbic acid is preferablytethered. Preferably, this composition additionally comprises twofurther types of deformable colloidal particles, a first to whichpalmitoyl tripeptide-1 is tethered and a second to which palmitoyltetrapeptide-7 is tethered. Both of these deformable colloidal particlespreferably also comprise Tethersomes. Preferably, the compositioncomprises tocopherol as a separate phase. One embodiment of such acomposition is set out in Example 5.

A ninth particularly preferred composition comprises tocopherol in thecontinuous phase and salicylic acid or a salt or ester thereof,preferably myristyl salicylate or tridecyl salicylate, tethered to thedeformable colloidal particles, preferably Tethersomes.

Preferably, this composition additionally comprises a further type ofdeformable colloidal particle, preferably Tethersomes, to whichpalmityol ascorbic acid and tocopheryl linoleate are tethered.

A tenth particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises an AOI in combination with soy phosphatidylcholine,polysorbate 80 and one or more of butylhydroxyanisole, ethanol, zincstearate, methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate (methyl paraben),ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate (ethyl paraben), benzylalcohol, citric acidmonohydrate, di-sodium hydrogen orthophosphate anhydrous, sodiumhydroxide, carbopol 974P, glycerol and water. Preferably, the AOI ischlorhexidine digluconate which may be present in the composition asmicelles. Preferably, the zinc stearate, where present, is tethered tothe colloidal particles which have a membrane mainly comprising soyphosphatidylcholine and polysorbate 80.

An eleventh particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises a AOI in combination with soy phosphatidylcholine, polysorbate80 and one or more of butylhydroxytoluene, ethanol,methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, benzylalchohol,sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate dihydrate, di-sodium hydrogenorthophosphate dodecahydrate, sodium hydroxide, carbophol 974P, glyceroland water. Preferably, the AOI is capsaicin. The capsaisin may bepresent in the composition as insoluble aggregates which are notassociated with the colloidal particles which have a membrane mainlycomprising soy phosphatidylcholine and polysorbate 80.

An twelfth particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises the same composition as the eleventh particularly preferredcomposition, above, with the addition of menthol. Preferably, thementhol is associated with the colloidal particles.

A thirteenth particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises an AOI in combination with soy phosphatidylcholine,polysorbate 80 and one or more of butylhydroxyanisole (BHA), ethanol,methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, benzylalchohol,di-sodium hydrogen orthophosphate dodecahydrate, sodium hydroxide,carbophol 974P, glycerol and water. Preferably, the AOI is glucosaminehydrochloride or N-acetyl glucosamine sulphate in combination withchondroitin sulphate. Preferably, these AOI are dissolved in thecontinuous phase and are not associated with the colloidal particleswhich have a membrane mainly comprising soy phosphatidylcholine andpolysorbate 80. Preferably, palmitoyl ascorbate and tocophenyl linoleateare tethered to the deformable colloidal particles.

A fourteenth particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises an AOI in combination with soy phosphatidylcholine,polysorbate 80 and one or more of butylhydroxyanisole (BHA), ethanol,methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, benzylalchohol,di-sodium hydrogen orthophosphate dodecahydrate, sodium hydroxide,carbophol 974P, glycerol and water. Preferably, the AOI is caffeinedissolved in the continuous phase and is not associated with thecolloidal particles which have a membrane mainly comprising soyphosphatidylcholine and polysorbate 80. Preferably, palmitoyl ascorbicacid is tethered to the deformable colloidal particles. Preferably, thecomposition additionally comprises tocopherol as a separate phase.

A fifteenth particularly preferred composition of the present inventioncomprises an AOI in combination with soy phosphatidylcholine,polysorbate 80 and one or more of butylhydroxyanisole (BHA), ethanol,methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate, benzylalchohol,di-sodium hydrogen orthophosphate dodecahydrate, sodium hydroxide,carbophol 974P, glycerol and water. Preferably, the AOIs are tocopherolin the continuous phase and salicylic acid or a salt of ester thereof,preferably myristyl salicylate or tridecyl salicylate, tethered todeformable colloidal particles which have a membrane mainly comprisingsoy phosphatidylcholine and polysorbate 80. Preferably, the compositionadditionally comprises a further type of deformable colloidal particle,which has a membrane mainly comprising soy phosphatidylcholine andpolysorbate 80, to which palmityol ascorbic acid and tocopheryllinoleate are tethered.

The invention is described below with reference to the followingexamples and figures in which:

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram of the movement of the deformable colloidalparticles and AOI of the compositions of the present invention throughthe skin.

FIG. 2 shows a simplified generic manufacturing process for compositionsof the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a graph illustrating the change in sebum levels over timeafter application of two compositions of the present inventioncomprising chlorhexidine digluconate to the skin of subjects, comparedto a control composition.

FIG. 4 is a graph illustrating the change in the number of comedonesover time after application of two compositions of the present inventioncomprising chlorhexidine digluconate to the skin of subjects, comparedto a control composition.

FIG. 5 is a graph illustrating the change in the number of pustules overtime after application of two compositions of the present inventioncomprising chlorhexidine digluconate to the skin of subjects, comparedto a control composition.

Example 1: Method of Manufacture

A simplified generic manufacturing process of compositions in accordancewith the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 2 and can besummarised as follows. Firstly, the colloidal dispersion comprising thedeformable colloidal particles (for example, the Sequessome™intermediate) is made. This colloidal dispersion is formed from an‘organic phase’ containing alcohol-soluble components and an ‘aqueousphase’ consisting of water-soluble components. Secondly, the gel phase(a thickener) is formed within which the colloidal dispersion isdispersed. During this secondary stage, more than one kind of colloidaldispersion may be introduced such that the final composition comprisesmore than one kind of colloidal particle. During secondary manufacture,the AOI is added to the gel phase.

Example 2: An in-use study in healthy volunteers to investigate theanti-spot efficacy of two test articles comprising chlorhexidine, usingobjective instrumental assessments of skin sebum levels and subjectivevisual assessments of lesion prevalence, against a placebo following a3-week use period

Summary

This study compared two variants of a multiphasic Sequessome™-basedmixed product with a control product in their ability to control sebumand reduce the incidence of acne in acne-prone individuals.

The test products (n=36 and n=37) contained two types of deformablecolloidal particle, namely Sequessomes™ (empty SPC/Tween (polysorbate)vesicles) and Tethersomes comprising tethered zinc, in addition to otherexcipients, including chlorhexidine as an anti-microbial. TheSequessomes™ and Tethersomes in the two products contained differentratios of SPC:Tween (polysorbate) to assess if this affected theefficacy of the product. The control product contained no vesicles, zincor chlorhexidine (n=20).

The objectively measured results demonstrated that against the controlproduct the test products:

-   -   Significantly reduced surface sebum (by up to 50%)¹    -   Significantly reduced comedones    -   Significantly reduced the numbers of papules and pustules ¹        Published data demonstrate that a reduction in sebum production        of 30-50% correlates with reduced acne symptoms        (Janiczek-Dolphin N1, Cook J, Thiboutot D, Harness J, Clucas A:        Can sebum reduction predict acne outcome? Br J Dermatol. 2010        October; 163(4):683-8)

TABLE 1 Summary of results Test Article 1 Test Article 2 Objectiveassessment Reduction in sebum after . . . 1 week >20%; 1 week >20%; 3weeks >50% 3 weeks >50% Reduction in comedones after . . . 1 week >40%;1 week = 50%; 3 weeks >90% 3 weeks >80% Reduction in pustules after . .. 1 week = 90%; 1 week >90%; 3 weeks >98% 3 weeks >98% Subjectiveassessment: % agreeing/strongly agreeing Product reduced blackheads64.7% 76.5% Product stopped spots recurring 69.6% 74.5% Spots lesspainful (tender to touch) 66.7% 82.4% Spots not as swollen 73.5% 75.5%Skin less shiny 59.8% 80.4% Skin less oily 67.6% 77.5% Skin less greasy69.6% 75.5%

The results showed the multifunctional nature of the product. Wehypothesise that the Sequessomes™ both assisted in the clearing of theexcess sebum from the skin surface, whilst their penetration into theskin dragged the chlorhexidine in solution into the skin structure,killing bacteria. The tethered zinc may also have had a role in bothreducing sebum production and/or having an anti-microbial function.

The test articles were both well tolerated with no adverse effects (AEs)reported and no erythema at the test site.

These results demonstrate that the test compositions are a veryeffective treatment for acne. The reduction in sebum and both spots andblackheads by 21 days supports the role of these compositions inpreventing future recurrences of the symptoms of acne.

Methods

Summary Protocol

Study design: Single-blind, within-subject comparison. Test Groups: Testarticle 1. CBL-DERM-14-005-E Test Article 2. CBL-DERM-14-006-F Control:CBL-DERM-14-008-P Dose regime: The test groups followed a 12-week usageschedule according to treatment specific in-use regimes. Duration of 21Days. study: Number of 36 subjects completed the active phase for group1, 37 subjects: subjects for group 2 and 20 subjects completedassessments for group 3. Duration of Study Started: w/c 26th January2015 study: Study Ended: w/e 20th February 2015 Location: PrincetonConsumer Research Ltd. 307 College Road East Princeton New Jersey 08540

Test Articles—Summary Formulae:

Quantities Required Per 100 g Final Product:

CBL- DERM- CBL-DERM- CBL-DERM- 14-006-F 14-005-E 14-008-P SPC (dry mass)6.870 g 7.146 g Polysorbate 80 0.850 g 0.472 g Benzylalcohol 0.525 g0.525 g Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.250 g 0.250 g 0.250 gEthyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.250 g 0.250 g 0.250 g Butylhydroxyanisol 0.020g 0.020 g Linalool 0.100 g 0.100 g Disodium hydrogen 0.530 g 0.530 g0.530 g phosphate 12 H₂O Citric acid monohydrate 0.128 g 0.128 g 0.128 gGlycerol 3.000 g 3.000 g Ethanol 3.569 g 3.418 g Sodium hydroxide 0.113g 0.113 g 0.150 g Carbopol 947P NF 0.750 g 0.750 g 1.000 g Water 81.463g  81.716 g  97.692 g  Agent of Interest - present in continuous phaseChlorhexidine digluconate 1.500 g 1.500 g (20% solution)** Agent ofInterest - tethered to Tethersomes Zinc Stearate 0.082 g 0.082 g pH 5.55.5 5.5 **% with respect to the salt

Test Articles—Detailed Formulation Information:

CBL-DERM-14-006-F:

Quantity Required Per 100 g Final Product (g) Organic Phase - EmptySequessome Intermediate SPC 3.43500 Ethanol 1.82550 BHA 0.01000Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Benzylalcohol 0.26250 Polysorbate 80 0.42500 Linalool 0.05000 Organic PhaseSub-Total 6.25800 Aqueous Phase - Empty Sequessome Intermediate Citricacid monohydrate 0.03600 diNa hydrogen phos 12H2O 0.14400 Water 22.72850Aqueous Phase Sub-Total 22.90850 Empty Sequessome Intermediate 29.16650Total Organic Phase - Zinc Stearate Intermediate SPC 3.43500 Ethanol1.74350 BHA 0.01000 Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Benzyl alcohol 0.26250 Polysorbate 800.42500 Zinc stearate 0.08200 Linalool 0.05000 Organic Phase Sub-Total6.25800 Aqueous Phase - Zinc Stearate Intermediate Citric acidmonohydrate 0.03600 diNa hydrogen phos 12H2O 0.14400 Water 22.72850Aqueous Phase Sub-Total 22.90850 Zinc Tethersomes Intermediate Total29.16650 Sum of Sequessome and Tethersome 58.33300 Intermediates GelPhase - Final Product Citric acid monohydrate 0.05600 diNa hydrogen phos12H2O 0.24200 Sodium hydroxide 0.11300 Carbopol 974P 0.75000 Glycerol3.00000 Water 36.00600 Gel Phase Sub-Total 40.16700 Chlorhexidinedigluconate 1.50000 Overall Total 100.00000

CBL-DERM-14-005-E:

Quantity Required Per 100 g Final Product (g) Organic Phase - EmptySequessome Intermediate SPC 3.57300 Ethanol 1.75000 BHA 0.01000Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Benzylalcohol 0.26250 Polysorbate 80 0.23600 Linalool 0.05000 Organic PhaseSub-Total 6.13150 Aqueous Phase - Empty Sequessome Intermediate Citricacid monohydrate 0.06400 diNa hydrogen phos 12H2O 0.26500 Water 34.30000Aqueous Phase Sub-Total 34.62900 Empty Sequessome Intermediate 40.76050Total Organic Phase - Zinc Stearate Intermediate SPC 3.57300 Ethanol1.66800 BHA 0.01000 Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Benzyl alcohol 0.26250 Polysorbate 800.23600 Zinc stearate 0.08200 Linalool 0.05000 Organic Phase Sub-Total6.13150 Aqueous Phase - Zinc Stearate Intermediate Citric acidmonohydrate 0.06400 diNa hydrogen phos 12H2O 0.26500 Water 34.30000Aqueous Phase Sub-Total 34.62900 Zinc Tethersome Intermediate Total40.76050 Sum of Sequessome and Tethersome 81.52100 Intermediates GelPhase - Final Product Sodium hydroxide 0.11300 Carbopol 974P 0.75000Glycerol 3.00000 Water 13.11600 Gel Phase Sub-Total 16.97900Chlorhexidine digluconate 1.50000 Overall Total 100.00000

Results

1. Sebum Reduction

TABLE 2 Average reduction in Sebum score from Day 0. A negative scoreindicates an increase in sebum. n Day 3 Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Test article1 36 20.47 34.94 71.64 90.11 Test article 2 37 14.51 36.30 85.35 98.49Control 20 −21.30 −48.60 −40.35 −44.95 1 vs. 2 t test p- 0.0163 0.67670.2065 0.3936 1 vs. Control values 7.04E−16 5.27E−23 9.74E−11 5.69E−16 2vs. Control 1.06E−14 1.62E−24 1.10E−14 4.63E−17

As illustrated in FIG. 3, at all time points both test articles reducedsebum significantly more than the control at p<0.1%. On day 3 TestArticle 1 was better than Test Article 2 at p<0.02. There was nosignificant difference in the effectiveness of the two test articles atall later time points.

By Day 21, both test articles had reduced the average sebum levels toless than 50% of the starting value.

2. Comedone Reduction

TABLE 3 Average reduction in occurrence of comedones from Day 0. Apositive score indicates an increase in comedones. n Day 3 Day 7 Day 14Day 21 Test article 1 36 −1.44 −2.31 −2.92 −3.44 Test article 2 37 −1.14−1.97 −2.84 −3.38 Control 20 1.20 1.30 1.25 0.35 1 vs. 2 t test p- 0.4140.468 0.903 0.934 1 vs. Control values 2.35E−06 2.98E−06 4.66E−056.63E−04 2 vs. Control 1.08E−07 2.93E−05 7.20E−05 8.97E−05

As illustrated in FIG. 4, at all time points both test articles reducedcomedones significantly more than the control at p<0.1%. There was nosignificant difference in the effectiveness of the two test articles atall time points.

3. Papule Reduction

TABLE 4 Analysis of progression participants who had blemishes at day 0n Day 0 Day 3 Day 7 Day 14 Day 21 Test article 1 5 13 5 1 0 0 Testarticle 2 7 16 9 5 0 0 Control 4 10 9 8 5 3

In those participants who began the trial with at least one papule, alltreatments showed a reduction in papule numbers over 21 days.

TABLE 5 Probabilities of U-statistic (Mann-Whitney) calculated on lesionreductions from Day 0 D14 vs D21 vs D3 v D0 D7 vs D0 D0 D0 1 vs. 2 0.1460.044 0.373 0.373 1 vs. Control 0.043 0.019 0.056 0.089 2 vs. Control0.110 0.093 0.110 0.254

Day 0

The test statistic (U) shows that Test article 1 was better than Control@ <5% on Day 3 and Day 7 and @ <10% on Day 14 and Day 21 and better thattest article 2 @ <5% on Day 7. Test article 2 was better than Control @<10% on Day 7

4. Pustule Reduction

TABLE 6 Reduction in pustule numbers from day 0. A positive scoreindicates an increase in numbers of pustules. n Day 3 Day 7 Day 14 Day21 Test article 1 36 −1.28 −1.97 −2.11 −2.17 Test article 2 37 −0.92−1.49 −1.57 −1.59 Control 20 0.60 0.05 0.15 −0.75 1 vs. 2 t test p-0.127 0.221 0.228 0.226 1 vs. Control values 2.71E−08 2.00E−05 9.67E−051.37E−02 2 vs. Control 8.60E−07 7.48E−04 1.04E−03 9.15E−02

As illustrated in FIG. 5, at all time points from Day 3 to Day 14 bothtest articles reduced pustule numbers significantly more than thecontrol at p<0.1%. At Day 21, test article 1 still outperformed controlat p<2.0%; test article 2 outperformed control at p<10%. There was nosignificant difference in the effectiveness of the two test articles atall time points.

Example 3: A study in volunteers to investigate the sensation producedusing three formulations comprising capsaicin

Method

Three formulations comprising capsaicin at a concentration of 0.025% byweight were applied to the skin of three individuals. The firstformulation (“TP1”) comprised the insoluble aggregates of capsaicin incombination with Transfersomes™ comprising menthol. The second (“TP2”)comprised insoluble and inflexible liposomes comprising capsaicin andmenthol in combination with Transfersomes™ comprising menthol. The thirdformulation (“TP3”) comprised the insoluble aggregates of capsaicin incombination with empty, fragrance-free Sequessomes™.

The three starting materials used to formulate TP1, TP2 and TP3 are setout below.

TP1 (PD-14-0072) was formed by taking 100 g of Start Material 1, andadding/mixing in 0.25 g of a 100 mg/g capsaicin solution in ethanol.

TP2 (PD-14-0073) was formed by taking 90 g of Start Material 1 andadding/mixing in 10 g of Start Material 2.

TP3 (PD-14-0074) was formed by taking 100 g of Start Material 3, andadding/mixing in 0.25 g of a 100 mg/g capsaicin solution in ethanol.

Start Materials

Start Material 1 (Flexible, Menthol-Fragranced Vesicles):

Quantity Required Per 100 g Final Product (g) Organic Phase - EmptyTransfersome Intermediate SPC (Dry Mass) 6.87000 Ethanol 3.65100 BHT0.02000 Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.25000 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.25000Benzyl alcohol 0.52500 Polysorbate 80 0.85000 Capsaicin 0.00000 Menthol0.10000 Organic Phase Sub-Total 12.51600 Aqueous Phase - EmptyTransfersome Intermediate Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate 2 H₂O 0.03700disodium hydrogen orthophosphate 12 H₂O 0.45300 Sodium EDTA 0.10000Water 45.22700 Aqueous Phase Sub-Total 45.81700 TransfersomeIntermediate Total 58.33300 Gel Phase - Final Product Sodium dihydrogenorthophosphate 2 H₂O 0.02400 disodium hydrogen orthophosphate 12 H₂O0.30200 Sodium hydroxide 0.63000 Carbopol 974P NF 1.25000 Glycerol3.00000 Water 36.46100 Gel Phase Sub-Total 41.66700 Overall Total100.00000

Start Material 2 (Capsaisin Liposomes):

Quantity Required Per 100 g Final Product (g) Organic Phase - LiposomeIntermediate SPC (Dry Mass) 6.87000 Ethanol 4.25100 BHT 0.02000Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.25000 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.25000 Benzylalcohol 0.52500 Polysorbate 80 0.00000 Capsaicin 0.25000 Menthol 0.10000Organic Phase Sub-Total 12.51600 Aqueous Phase - Liposome IntermediateSodium dihydrogen orthophosphate 2 H₂O 0.03700 disodium hydrogenorthophosphate 12 H₂O 0.45300 Sodium EDTA 0.10000 Water 45.22700 AqueousPhase Sub-Total 45.81700 Liposome Intermediate Total 58.33300 GelPhase - Final Product Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate 2 H₂O 0.02400disodium hydrogen orthophosphate 12 H₂O 0.30200 Sodium hydroxide 0.63000Carbopol 974P NF 1.25000 Glycerol 3.00000 Water 36.46100 Gel PhaseSub-Total 41.66700 Overall Total 100.00000

Start Material 3 (Flexible, Empty, Fragrance-Free Vesicles):

Quantity Required Per 100 g Final Product (g) Organic Phase - SequessomeIntermediate SPC (Dry Mass) 6.87000 Ethanol 3.75100 BHT 0.02000Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.25000 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.25000 Benzylalcohol 0.52500 Polysorbate 80 0.85000 Capsaicin 0.00000 Menthol 0.00000Organic Phase Sub-Total 12.51600 Aqueous Phase - Empty SequessomeIntermediate Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate 2 H₂O 0.03700 disodiumhydrogen orthophosphate 12 H₂O 0.45300 Sodium EDTA 0.10000 Water45.22700 Aqueous Phase Sub-Total 45.81700 Sequessome Intermediate Total58.33300 Gel Phase - Final Product Sodium dihydrogen orthophosphate 2H₂O 0.02400 disodium hydrogen orthophosphate 12 H₂O 0.30200 Sodiumhydroxide 0.63000 Carbopol 974P NF 1.25000 Glycerol 3.00000 Water36.46100 Gel Phase Sub-Total 41.66700 Overall Total 100.00000

Summary Formulae:

Title PD-14-0072 PD-14-0073 PD-14-0074 (Start (90% Start (Start Material1 Material 1 Material 3 plus 0.025% plus 10% plus 0.025% Start StartStart capsaicin in Start capsaicin in Ingredient Material 1 Material 2Material 3 ethanol) Material 2 ethanol) SPC (dry mass)  6.870 g  6.870 g 6.870 g  6.870 g  6.870 g  6.870 g Polysorbate 80  0.850 g —  0.850 g 0.850 g  0.765 g  0.850 g Benzylalcohol  0.525 g  0.525 g  0.525 g 0.525 g  0.525 g  0.525 g Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate  0.250 g  0.250 g 0.250 g  0.250 g  0.250 g  0.250 g Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate  0.250 g 0.250 g  0.250 g  0.250 g  0.250 g  0.250 g Butylhydroxytoluene  0.020g  0.020 g  0.020 g  0.020 g  0.020 g  0.020 g Disodium EDTA  0.100 g 0.100 g  0.100 g  0.100 g  0.100 g  0.100 g Disodium hydrogen  0.755 g 0.755 g  0.755 g  0.755 g  0.755 g  0.755 g phosphate 12 H₂O Sodiumdihydrogen  0.061 g  0.061 g  0.061 g  0.061 g  0.061 g  0.061 gphosphate 2 H₂O Glycerol  3.000 g  3.000 g  3.000 g  3.000 g  3.000 g 3.000 g Ethanol  3.651 g  4.251 g  3.751 g  3.876 g  3.711 g  3.976 gSodium hydroxide  0.630 g  0.630 g  0.630 g  0.630 g  0.630 g  0.630 gCarbopol 974P NF  1.250 g  1.250 g  1.250 g  1.250 g  1.250 g  1.250 gWater  81.688 g  81.688 g  81.688 g  81.688 g  81.688 g  81.688 g Agentof Interest in continuous phase Capsaicin —  0.250 g —  0.025 g  0.025 g 0.025 g Agent of Interest in Transfersomes Menthol  0.100 g  0.100 g — 0.100 g  0.100 g Total mass 100.000 g 100.000 g 100.000 g 100.250 g100.000 g 100.250 g

Results

Following the application of the formulations to the skin of threeindividuals, the following combined results were recorded regarding theonset, duration and intensity of the warming sensation produced by thecapsaicin.

TABLE 8 Combined results of three individuals testing “TP1”, “TP2” and“TP3” Product code TP1 TP2 TP3 (PD-14-0072) (PD-14-0073) (PD-14-0074)Capsaicin Insoluble In liposomes Insoluble aggregate aggregate MentholIn membranes of In membranes of None Transfersomes ™ Transfersomes ™ andof liposomes Sequessomes No No Yes Test product TP1 TP2 TP3 Onset ofsensation  5 to 30 mins  5 to 30 mins  15-30 mins Onset of optimal  15to 60 mins  15 to 60 mins  30-60 mins sensation Duration of sensation 60to 120 mins 45 to 180 mins 45 to 60 mins (capsaicin) Intensity(capsaicin) Pleasant Pleasant Pleasant

Example 4: Exemplary compositions comprising (i) glucosaminehydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate (CBL-LS-15-002) and (ii) N-acetylglucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate (CBL-LS-15-003)

Below is provided two exemplary formulations of chondroitin andglucosamine. The first (CBL-LS-15-002) comprises glucosaminehydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate as the “free” AOIs in thecontinuous phase and palmitoyl ascorbate and tocopheryl lineoleatetethered to Tethersomes. The second (CBL-LS-15-00) comprises N-acetylglucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate as the “free” AOIs in thecontinuous phase and palmitoyl ascorbate and tocopheryl lineoleatetethered to Tethersomes.

CBL-LS-15-002 CBL-LS-15-003 Ingredient Supplement Gel Supplement Gel SPC(dry mass) 6.870 g 6.870 g Polysorbate 80 0.850 g 0.850 g Benzylalcohol0.525 g 0.525 g Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.250 g 0.250 gEthyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.250 g 0.250 g Butylhydroxyanisole 0.020 g0.020 g Linalool 0.100 g 0.100 g Sodium metabisulphite 0.050 g 0.050 gDisodium EDTA 0.100 g 0.100 g Disodium hydrogen phosphate 12 0.530 g0.530 g H₂O Citric acid monohydrate 0.128 g 0.128 Glycerol 3.000 g 3.000g Ethanol 3.455 g 3.455 g Sodium hydroxide 0.160 g 0.160 g Carbopol 974PNF 0.750 g 0.750 g Water 82.366 g  82.366 g  Agents of Interest inContinuous Phase Chondroitin Sulphate 0.200 g 0.200 g Glucosamine•HCl0.200 g N-Acetyl glucosamine sulphate 0.200 g Agents of Interest -Tethered to Tethersomes Palmitoyl ascorbate 0.096 g 0.096 g Tocopheryllinoleate 0.100 g 0.100 g

Example 5: A user trial study in healthy volunteers to investigate theefficacy of a test article comprising caffeine in improving theappearance of periorbital skin

This study tested the efficacy of a formulation comprising caffeine andtocopherol in the continuous phase and three types of deformablecolloidal particles: 1) Tethersomes to which palmitoyl ascorbate istethered, 2) Tethersomes to which palmitoyl tripeptide-1 is tethered,and 3) Tethersomes to which palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 is tethered.

Methods

Summary Protocol

Study design: Single-blind Test article: CBL-DERM-15-013 Periorbitalskin serum Duration of treatment: 4 weeks Number of subjects: 102 Typeof subjects: Healthy male and female subjects (from a breadth ofethnicities) aged between 40 and 70 years old (in equal proportions, 33%each 10 year age group), from a breadth of ethnicities and with avariety of skin types (normal, combination, dry, oily, sensitive) whosuffer from the appearance of two of the following characteristics:Periorbital puffiness - swelling around the eyes Puffiness below thelower eyelids - ‘eye bags’ Periorbital dark circles caused by a) agingb) heredity and c) hyperpigmentation (dark skinned people) (There mustbe an equal representation of all three characteristics to ensure claimsobjectivity). All subjects must have visible wrinkles, fine lines andcrow's feet around the eye area Observations: Subjects were asked toapply the product as per usage instructions. They were then asked tocomplete a Self- Perception Questionnaire (SPQ) after two weeks and atthe end of the study after four weeks. Treatment: Subjects were issuedwith samples of the test article and directions for use followingstandard in-use application regime. Location Princeton Consumer ResearchHarbour House 23 Chandlers Quay Maldon CM9 4LF United Kingdom

Summary Formula for CBL-DERM-15-013:

CBL-DERM- 15-013 Periorbital Ingredient Skin SPC (dry mass)  6.870 gPolysorbate 80  0.714 g Benzylalcohol  0.525 g Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.250 g Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate  0.250 g Butylhydroxyanisole  0.020 gLinalool  0.100 g Sodium metabisulphite  0.050 g Disodium EDTA  0.100 gDisodium hydrogen phosphate 12 H₂O  0.530 g Citric acid monohydrate 0.128 g Glycerol  3.000 g Ethanol  3.479 g Sodium hydroxide  0.160 gCarbopol 974P NF  0.750 g Water 82.716 g Agent of Interest in ContinuousPhase Caffeine  0.050 g Tocopherol  0.200 g Agents of Interest -tethered to Tethersomes Palmitoyl tripeptide-1  0.006 g Palmitoyltetrapeptide-7  0.006 g Palmitoyl ascorbate  0.096 g

Detailed Formulation Information for CBL-DERM-15-013:

Quantity Required Per 100 g Final Product (g) Organic Phase - 1600 ppmPAA Intermediate Soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC) 4.12200 Ethanol 1.99660Butylhydroxyanisole (BHA) 0.01200 Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.15000Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.15000 Benzyl alcohol 0.31500 Polysorbate 800.40800 Palmitoyl ascorbic acid 0.09600 +/−alpha tocopherol 0.20000Linalool 0.06000 Organic Phase Sub-Total 7.50960 Aqueous Phase - 1600ppm PAA intermediate Sodium metabisulphite 0.03000 Citric acidmonohydrate 0.04320 Disodium EDTA 0.06000 Disodium hydrogenorthophosphate 0.17280 dodecahydrate Caffeine 0.05000 Water 27.13420Aqueous Phase Sub-Total 27.49020 PAA Tethersome Intermediate Total34.99980 Organic Phase - 300 ppm Tetrapeptide Intermediate Soyphosphatidylcholine (SPC) 1.37400 Ethanol 0.74120 Butylhydroxyanisole(BHA) 0.00400 Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.05000 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate0.05000 Benzyl alcohol 0.10500 Polysorbate 80 0.15300 Palmitoyl peptide0.00600 Linalool 0.02000 Organic Phase Sub-Total 2.50320 Aqueous Phase -300 ppm Tetrapeptide Intermediate Sodium metabisulphite 0.01000 Citricacid monohydrate 0.01440 Disodium EDTA 0.02000 Disodium hydrogenorthophosphate 0.05760 dodecahydrate Water 9.06140 Aqueous PhaseSub-Total 9.16340 Tetrapeptide Tethersome Intermediate Total 11.66660Organic Phase - 300 ppm Tripeptide Intermediate Soy phosphatidylcholine(SPC) 1.37400 Ethanol 0.74120 Butylhydroxyanisole (BHA) 0.00400Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.05000 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.05000 Benzylalcohol 0.10500 Polysorbate 80 0.15300 Palmitoyl peptide 0.00600Linalool 0.02000 Organic Phase Sub-Total 2.50320 Aqueous Phase - 300 ppmTripeptide Intermediate Sodium metabisulphite 0.01000 Citric acidmonohydrate 0.01440 Disodium EDTA 0.02000 Disodium hydrogenorthophosphate 0.05760 dodecahydrate Water 9.06140 Aqueous PhaseSub-Total 9.16340 Tripeptide Tethersome Intermediate Total 11.66660 Sumof Tethersome Intermediates 58.33300 Gel Phase - Final Product Sodiumhydroxide 0.16000 Carbopol 974P NF 0.75000 Glycerol 3.00000 Citric acidmonohydrate 0.05600 Disodium hydrogen orthophosphate 0.24200dodecahydrate Water 37.45900 Gel Phase Sub-Total 41.66700 Overall Total100.00000

Results

Within-treatment analysis (p<0.05) of periorbital clinical assessmentshows there to be a statistically significant reduction in wrinkles(15.69%), fine lines (31.22%), crow's feet (21.47%), puffiness (38.07%),dark circles (26.01%) and eye bags (38.94%) after 4 weeks of productusage.

The product performed statistically favourably over the 4 week study inthe majority of attributes under Clearcast guidelines of advertising.The product showed a preference or favourability in the majority ofattributes:

-   -   After using the product, 96.08% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed the product reduced the appearance of puffiness and        swelling around my eyes.    -   After using the product, 96.08% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin felt and looked less thin.    -   After using the product, 93.14% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin felt more elastic.    -   After using the product, 96.08% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed the product reduced the appearance of swelling and        puffiness below the lower eyelids (eye bags).    -   After using the product, 90.20% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed the product lifted sagged skin (reduction in skin        droopiness and sagging).    -   After using the product, 92.16% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed the product reduced the appearance of under eye dark        circles.    -   After using the product, 95.10% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin looked and felt more firm.    -   After using the product, 90.20% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed there was a reduction in fine lines (inc. crow's feet)        around the eye area.    -   After using the product, 87.25% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed there was a reduction in deep wrinkles (inc. crow's feet)        around the eye area.    -   After using the product, 93.14% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin tone looked more even.    -   After using the product, 90.20% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their eye contour looked and felt tighter.    -   After using the product, 90.20% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their eye contour looked more toned/lifted.    -   After using the product, 96.08% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their eyes looked rested/less tired.    -   After using the product, 97.06% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their eye skin was more hydrated.    -   After using the product, 95.10% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin looked smoother.    -   After using the product, 99.02% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed the product was gentle and well tolerated.    -   After using the product, 75.49% of users stated, yes, they would        buy this product instead of their usual product.    -   After using the product, 86.27% of users stated, yes, they would        recommend this product to a friend.    -   After using the product, 46.08% of users stated, they looked at        least 5 years younger.

Example 6: A user trial study in healthy volunteers to investigate theefficacy of a test article comprising tocopherol and tridecyl salicylatein improving skin tone

This study tested the efficacy of a formulation comprising a racemicmixture of alpha tocopherol in the continuous phase and two types ofcolloidal particles: 1) Tethersomes to which tridecyl salicylate istethered and 2) Tethersomes to which palmitoyl ascorbate and tocopheryllinoleate are tethered.

Methods

Summary Protocol

Study design: Single-blind Test article: CBL-DERM-15-014 Skin tone serumDuration of treatment: 4 weeks Number of subjects: 110 Type of subjects:Healthy male (20%) and female (80%) participants aged between 20 and 70years (equal proportions of each 10 year age group; 20's, 30's, 40's,50's, 60's, 70's), from a Breadth of Ethnicities and with a Variety ofSkin Types. Subjects suffer from one well pronounced or two out of thefollowing six conditions; Melasma or Chloasma spots, Uneven skin tone,Age, sun or “liver” spots, Freckles, Post- inflammatoryhyperpigmentation or Periorbital hyperpigmentation (dark circles).Observations: Subjects were asked to apply the product as per usageinstructions. They were asked to complete a Self-PerceptionQuestionnaire (SPQ) at the end of Weeks 3 and 6. Treatment: Subjectswere issued with samples of each test article and directions for usefollowing standard in-use application regime. Location PrincetonConsumer Research Harbour House 23 Chandlers Quay Maldon CM9 4LF UnitedKingdom

Summary Formula for CBL-DERM-15-014:

CBL-DERM- 15-014 Uneven Skin Ingredient Tone SPC (dry mass)  6.870 gPolysorbate 80  0.850 g Benzylalcohol  0.525 g Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.250 g Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate  0.250 g Butylhydroxyanisole  0.020 gLinalool  0.100 g Sodium metabisulphite  0.050 g Disodium EDTA  0.100 gDisodium hydrogen phosphate 12 H₂O  0.530 g Citric acid monohydrate 0.128 g Glycerol  3.000 g Ethanol  3.255 g Sodium hydroxide  0.160 gCarbopol 974P NF  0.750 g Water 82.766 g Agent of Interest in ContinuousPhase Tocopherol  0.100 g Agents of Interest - tethered to TethersomesPalmitoyl ascorbate  0.096 g Tocopheryl Linoleate  0.100 g TridecylSalicylate  0.100 g pH*  5.5 *Final pH approximate; to be confirmed **The source of SC dry mass for Uneven Skin Tone will be lipoidPhospholipon 90K (P90K). The quantity of P90K and ethanol to be addedshould be calculated accordingly.

Detailed Formulation Information for CBL-DERM-15-014:

Quantity Required Per 100 g Final Product (g) Organic Phase - TridecylSalicylate Intermediate Soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC) 3.43500 Ethanol1.67550 Butylhydroxyanisole (BHA) 0.01000 Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate0.12500 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Benzyl alcohol 0.26250Polysorbate 80 0.42500 Tridecyl Salicylate 0.10000 +/−alpha tocopherol0.05000 Linalool 0.05000 Organic Phase Sub-Total 6.25800 Aqueous Phase -Tridecyl Salicylate Intermediate Citric acid monohydrate 0.03600Disodium EDTA 0.05000 Sodium metabisulphite 0.02500 Disodium hydrogenorthophosphate 0.14400 dodecahydrate Water 22.65350 Aqueous PhaseSub-Total 22.90850 Tridecyl Salicylate Tethersome Intermediate 29.16650Total Organic Phase - PAA/Tocopheryl Linoleate Intermediate Soyphosphatidylcholine (SPC) 3.43500 Ethanol 1.57950 Butylhydroxyanisole(BHA) 0.01000 Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate 0.12500 Ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate0.12500 Benzyl alcohol 0.26250 Polysorbate 80 0.42500 Palmitoyl ascorbicacid 0.09600 Tocopheryl linoleate 0.10000 +/−alpha tocopherol 0.05000Linalool 0.05000 Organic Phase Sub-Total 6.25800 Aqueous Phase -PAA/Tocopheryl Linoleate Intermediate Citric acid monohydrate 0.03600Disodium EDTA 0.05000 Sodium metabisulphite 0.02500 Disodium hydrogenorthophosphate 0.14400 dodecahydrate Water 22.65350 Aqueous PhaseSub-Total 22.90850 PAA/Tocopheryl Linoleate Tethersome 29.16650Intermediate Total Sum of Tethersome Intermediates 58.33300 Gel Phase -Final Product Sodium hydroxide 0.16000 Carbopol 974P NF 0.75000 Glycerol3.00000 Citric acid monohydrate 0.05600 Disodium hydrogen orthophosphate0.24200 dodecahydrate Water 37.45900 Gel Phase Sub-Total 41.66700Overall Total 100.00000

Results

The product did perform statistically favourably over the 6 week studyin the majority of attributes under Clearcast guidelines of advertising.The product did show a preference or favourability in the majority ofattributes:

-   -   After using the product, 100% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed the product reduced the appearance of fine lines and        wrinkles.    -   After using the product, 100% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin looked significantly smoother.    -   After using the product, 100% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin felt significantly more healthy.    -   After using the product, 96.36% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin felt more elastic    -   After using the product, 99.09% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their complexion looks younger.    -   After using the product, 99.09% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their complexion is visibly improved.    -   After using the product, 100% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their complexion was visibly more radiant.    -   After using the product, 100% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their complexion looked significantly healthier.    -   After using the product, 98.18% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their skin toned looked significantly more even    -   After using the product, 96.36% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed that the amount of hyperpigmentation/pigmented skin        blemishes were significantly reduced.    -   After using the product, 97.27% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed that the size of hyperpigmentation/pigmented skin        blemishes were significantly reduced.    -   After using the product, 99.09% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed that hyperpigmentation/pigmented skin blemishes were        significantly lighter.    -   After using the product, 20.00% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed that hyperpigmented/pigmented skin blemishes totally        disappeared.    -   After using the product, 100% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed their periorbital dark circles got significantly lighter.    -   After using the product, 95.45% of users agreed, or strongly        agreed this was the most effective hyperpigmentation solution        they had used.    -   After using the product, 92.73% of users stated, yes, they would        buy this product instead of their usual product.    -   After using the product, 100% of users stated, yes, they would        recommend this product to a friend.

With reference to packaging/promotional claims, any results with a top 3& 4 scoring greater than 80% are highly favourable.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A composition comprising a colloidaldispersion and an Agent of Interest (“AOI”), wherein said colloidaldispersion comprises deformable colloidal particles each comprising asurfactant and a phospholipid and wherein the AOI is a biologicallyactive agent and comprises a chlorhexidine or a salt thereof and is notassociated with the deformable colloidal particles, and furthercomprising a zinc tethered to the deformable colloidal particles.
 2. Thecomposition of claim 1 wherein the AOI comprises chlorhexidinedigluconate.
 3. The composition of claim 1, comprising empty deformablecolloidal particles.
 4. The composition of claim 3, wherein thecomposition comprises chlorhexidine digluconate, soyphosphatidylcholine, polysorbate 80 and one or more ofbutylhydroxyanisole, ethanol, zinc stearate, methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate(methyl paraben), ethyl-4-hydroxybenzoate (ethyl paraben),benzylalcohol, citric acid monohydrate, di-sodium hydrogenorthophosphate anhydrous, sodium hydroxide, carbopol 974P, glycerol andwater.
 5. The composition of claim 4, wherein the chlorhexidinedigluconate is present in the composition in the form of micelles. 6.The composition of claim 3, wherein the deformable colloidal particleshave a membrane mainly comprising soy phosphatidylcholine andpolysorbate
 80. 7. A method of treating or preventing acne ordermatitis, the method comprising topically applying the composition ofclaim 1, to the skin of a patient in need thereof.